Recorder Marriage Records

How to request and receive a certified marriage certificate

Records Available 

Certified Copies: 

  • The event took place in Iowa between 1954 - Present
    • Certified copies can be obtained through any Iowa County Recorder's Office or the State Office for events during these dates.
  • The event occurred between 1885 - 1921
    • And the Marriage Application occurred in Avoca 
  • The event occurred between 1917 - 1953
    • And the Marriage Application (not necessarily the wedding itself) occurred in Pottawattamie County

State Department of Health and Human Services has access to copies of all Vital Records in the State.

Photocopies: 

  • Between 1885 -1921 in Avoca
  • Between 1917- Present in Pottawattamie County

The Record will be noted, "Not for Legal Purposes."

Cost

Certified Copies of Vital Records are available for $15.00 each to entitled persons. For certified copies, we accept payment of cash, check, or credit card(credit card only accepted in-person; not available for mail orders). 

If you are not entitled to a certified copy, photo copies are available to anyone for a fee of $5.00 cash only. Photo copies are only available for events that happened in Pottawattamie County.

Instructions

You will need a valid photo ID or driver's license, be at least 18 years old and have entitlement.

Ways to Apply

  • Apply in person.
    • Make sure to bring your valid ID or driver’s license and a check or money order (payable to Pottawattamie County Recorder) or credit card for payment.
       
  • Applying by mail.
    • If applying by mail, you must fill out the application with your signature notarized, and we need a copy of your valid ID or driver's license and a check or money order (payable to the Pottawattamie County Recorder).
      • If you would like Pottawattamie County to process your request, please mail your notarized completed application and payment to:

        Pottawattamie County Recorder
        227 S 6th St.
        Council Bluffs, IA 51503
         
  • Apply by phone or online through the IDPH and VitalChek.

 

Application Form Acceptable Forms of Identification Vital Record Entitlement

Phone (712) 328-5612
Fax: (712) 328-4738
Hours Monday - Friday

8:00am to 3:30pm
Real Estate Filings, Marriage Applications, Passports

8:00am to 4:00pm
Boat, Snowmobile, ATV, Birth, Death & Marriage Records
Location Pottawattamie County Courthouse
Second Floor
227 S 6th St
Council Bluffs, IA 51501