Order official Iowa Marriage Records and Vital Records online

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Marriage records are vital documents that provide proof of a legal union between two individuals. They are often needed for various legal purposes, such as changing one's name, applying for spousal benefits, or conducting genealogical research. This guide will explain how to obtain marriage records in Iowa, highlighting the application process, the required documents, the costs involved, and the typical processing times.

Who Can Request Marriage Records?

Iowa marriage records are considered confidential, and only authorized individuals are allowed to request them. Those who can request these records include:

  • • The individuals named in the marriage certificate;
  • • Legal representatives; and
  • • Immediate family members.

What Documents Are Required?

Various documents are necessary to process your request for a marriage certificate. Generally, you will need:

  • • A completed application form;
  • • Valid government-issued photo identification; and
  • • Proof of relationship if you are an immediate family member.

Forms and additional instructions can be downloaded and completed from the Iowa Department of Public Health main page.

How to Obtain Iowa Marriage Records

By Mail

To request by mail, download and fill out the application form. Include the required documents and payment, and send everything to:

Iowa Department of Public Health
Lucas State Office Building
321 E. 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319-0075

In Person

You can also visit the Iowa Department of Public Health to request a marriage certificate. Bring your completed application form, required documents, and payment to the customer service desk. Visit the Vital Records office at the same address mentioned above.

Online

For those who prefer online services, you can use VitalChek to order Iowa marriage records. Follow the website's instructions to complete your request.

How Much Do Marriage Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining an Iowa marriage certificate is $15 per copy. If you need expedited service, you may incur additional fees. Additional copies ordered at the same time usually cost less per copy.

Processing Time

By Mail

Processing times for mail requests are typically 4-6 weeks from the time the request is received.

In Person

In-person requests are generally processed the same day, although you may have to wait a short period for the certificate to be prepared.

Online

Online requests via VitalChek usually take about 7-10 business days, depending on the chosen shipping method and payment confirmation.

For any questions or specific clarifications, it is best to directly contact the Iowa Department of Public Health. Following these guidelines will help ensure that your application process for obtaining Iowa marriage records goes smoothly. If you require further assistance, reaching out to the department can provide additional support and answers to specific inquiries.

If the event was recorded locally or if you need immediate access to detailed records, it is preferable to contact your county vital records office directly. Find the contact details of your local county vital records office here.

Iowa Department of Public Health - Bureau of Vital Records

AddressLucas Office Building, 1st Floor, 321 East 12th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319-0075
Phone number(515) 281-4944
Websitehttps://hhs.iowa.gov/