How to Get a Marriage License in the Quad Cities: A Step-by-Step Guide for Iowa & Illinois
Planning your wedding in the Quad Cities? One essential step before saying "I do" is obtaining a marriage license. Since the Quad Cities spans both Iowa and Illinois, the requirements and processes vary depending on which state you’re getting married in. Below is a step-by-step guide for couples applying for a marriage license on both sides of the river, including locations, fees, and important requirements.
Marriage License Requirements in Iowa
Where to Apply:
📍 Scott County Recorder's Office
Address: 600 W. 4th St., Davenport, IA 52801
📞 Phone: (563) 326-8622
⏰ Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
📍 Muscatine County Recorder's Office
Address: 414 E. Third St., Suite 103, Muscatine, IA 52761
📞 Phone: (563) 263-7741
⏰ Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
📍 Clinton County Recorder's Office
Address: 1900 N. 3rd St., Clinton, IA 52732
📞 Phone: (563) 244-0565
⏰ Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Requirements:
Both applicants must be at least 18 years old (or have court approval if younger).
A valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport) is required.
You must apply in person at the Scott County Recorder’s Office.
A third-party witness (over 18 years old) must be present to sign the application.
The fee for the marriage license is $35 (cash, check, or credit card accepted).
There is a three-day waiting period before the license is valid.
The license is valid for six months after issuance.
How to Get Your Marriage License:
Visit the Scott County Recorder's Office together with a witness.
Fill out the application and present your IDs.
Pay the $35 fee.
Wait three days before picking up your license.
Once your ceremony is performed, your officiant must return the signed license to the Recorder’s Office for official filing.
Marriage License Requirements in Illinois
Where to Apply:
📍 Rock Island County Clerk’s Office
Address: 1504 3rd Ave., Rock Island, IL 61201
📞 Phone: (309) 558-3569
⏰ Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
📍 Henry County Clerk's Office
Address: 307 W. Center St., Cambridge, IL 61238
📞 Phone: (309) 937-3572
⏰ Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
📍 Mercer County Clerk's Office
Address: 100 SE 3rd St., Aledo, IL 61231
📞 Phone: (309) 582-7021
⏰ Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Requirements:
Both applicants must be at least 18 years old (or have parental/legal consent if younger).
A valid government-issued photo ID is required.
You must apply in person at the County Clerk’s Office.
The fee for a marriage license is $50 (cash or card payments accepted).
There is a 24-hour waiting period before you can use the license.
The license is valid for 60 days and can only be used in that one county.
After your wedding, your officiant must return the completed license to the County Clerk’s Office for official recording.
Who Can Officiate Your Wedding?
In both Iowa and Illinois, a marriage can be officiated by:
A judge or magistrate
A religious leader (minister, priest, rabbi, etc.)
A designated officiant who has been ordained (including online ordinations)
Additional Tips & FAQs
Can I Get a Marriage License Online?
No, both Scott County and Rock Island County require applicants to appear in person to apply.
Do We Have to Be Residents of Iowa or Illinois?
No, you do not have to be a resident to apply for a marriage license, but you must get married in the county where the license was issued.
What If We Need to Waive the Waiting Period?
In Iowa, the three-day waiting period can be waived for a $5 fee with judicial approval.
In Illinois, the 24-hour waiting period cannot be waived.
What Happens After the Wedding?
Your officiant is responsible for returning the signed license to the issuing office. Once filed, you can request certified copies for name changes, legal documentation, and other official purposes.
Final Thoughts
Getting a marriage license in the Quad Cities is a straightforward process, but it's important to follow the correct steps depending on which state you're in. Be sure to apply in advance, bring the necessary documents, and plan for the waiting period before your ceremony. Once that’s taken care of, you're one step closer to saying “I do!”
For more wedding planning resources and local vendor recommendations, visit QC Wed Me!