Apply for a Marriage License
How to Apply
In Person
Visit the Auditor & Recorder's Office on the 3rd Floor of the Marshall County Courthouse.
By Mail
To request an application by mail, please contact the Auditor & Recorder's Office at 641-754-6323.
Application Requirements
To apply for a marriage license, the following are required:
- Both applicants and one witness (age 18 or older) must appear in person
- All three individuals must present a current, valid photo ID (drivers license or givernment-issued ID)
- Expired identification will not be accepted
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be legally able to enter into a civil contract
- Intend to marry
- Not be currently married
- Not be closely related by blood (including first cousins)
Fees
- The marriage license fee is $35.00, which includes one certified copy of the marriage certificate
- Payment is due at the time of application
- Accepted payment methods: check, cash, or credit card (a processing fee applies to credit card transactions)
Waiting Period
There is a full three-day waiting period before the marriage license becomes valid and the ceremony may take place. The waiting period begins the day after the application has been accepted and processed. Please see the chart below:
| Date of Application: | Valid Date of Marriage Certificate: |
|---|---|
| Monday | Friday |
| Tuesday | Saturday |
| Wednesday | Sunday |
| Thursday | Monday |
| Friday | Tuesday |
Who Can Perform a Marriage
In addition to ordained ministers or religious leader, the following individuals are authorized to perform marriages by appointment only:
- Kevin O'Hare, Magistrate – 641-752-8800
- Tom Hillers, Magistrate – 641-328-5590
- Bethany Currie, District Court Judge – 515-382-7434
- Able to perform ceremonies in Spanish upon request.
- Merrill Swartz, Magistrate – 515-994-5004
If the ceremony takes place outside of normal court business hours, judges may charge a reasonable fee for their time and expenses. Ministers or officiants may also charge a fee as agreed upon with the couple.