How to Officiate a Wedding in Polk County, Iowa

Serving Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale…

Pastafarian minister officiating a wedding

Polk County follows Iowa state marriage law — no registration required, and your FSM ordination is all you need to officiate. This page covers the local details: where to get the marriage license, what it costs, and what to know about doing it here.

Getting the Marriage License

The couple needs to get their marriage license before the wedding. Here’s where to go in Polk County:

Polk County Clerk
111 Court Avenue Suite 250
(515) 281-4944 · www.polkcountyiowa.gov

Fee $35.00
Hours Mon – Fri: 8:00am – 4:30pm
Online application No — apply in person
Both parties present? Yes
ID required Valid government-issued photo ID

Quick Reference

These details come from Iowa state law — see the full Iowa wedding guide for more.

Can an FSM minister sign the license? Yes
Registration required? None
Waiting period waiting period (5 days in Jasper County — per ULC)
License valid for Check with clerk
Witnesses needed 2
Return deadline Within 15 days
FSM Ordination Package

The Ordination Package — $79

  • Paper Certificate of Ordination
  • Black/Silver Resin Wallet Card
  • Two Vinyl Car Decals
  • Digital credentials (PDF) delivered same-day
  • Free shipping worldwide

Get Ordained →