Dakota County marriage records contain official details about marriages that were licensed and recorded within the county. These records serve as proof of marriage and are often needed for legal identification, name changes, or genealogical research. Only marriages that were applied for and finalized in Dakota County are filed here. The county’s Vital Records Office maintains and issues these certificates to eligible requesters. Access to these documents helps residents verify personal records while maintaining compliance with Minnesota’s public record laws.
Divorce records MN are managed through the Dakota County Court, where all divorce judgments and decrees are filed. These documents confirm the dissolution of a marriage and may include case details such as property division or custody arrangements. Minnesota law grants public access to most divorce records, though confidential cases or those involving minors may be restricted. Together, marriage and divorce records provide a transparent record of vital life events, supporting both personal and legal needs.
What Is a Marriage Record?
A marriage record is an official document that proves a legal union between two individuals. It is different from a marriage license, which authorizes the couple to marry before the ceremony takes place. Once the ceremony is performed and the officiant files the completed license with the county, it becomes a marriage certificate — the legal proof of marriage. In Dakota County, only marriages that were licensed within the county are recorded here. Certified copies can be requested by either spouse, an authorized legal representative, or a person with tangible interest. These records are often used for legal identification, name changes, applying for spousal benefits, or verifying marital status in court or government procedures.
How to Obtain a Marriage Certificate (Step-by-Step Guide)
Before requesting a copy, confirm that the marriage license was originally issued in Dakota County. Then complete the Marriage Certificate Application form, which is available both online and at the county service centers. Bring a valid form of identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID when applying in person. Each certified copy costs $9, payable at the time of request. Applicants can receive their certificates either by in-person pickup or through mail delivery, depending on preference.
Dakota County Office Locations:
- Administrative Center – Hastings
1590 Highway 55, Hastings, MN 55033
Phone: (651) 438-8175 | Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM - Northern Service Center – West St. Paul
1 Mendota Road W, Suite 100, West St. Paul, MN 55118
Phone: (651) 554-6200 | Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM - Western Service Center – Apple Valley
14955 Galaxie Avenue, Apple Valley, MN 55124
Phone: (952) 891-7100 | Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Online or Mail Requests
Applicants who prefer not to visit in person can download the Marriage Certificate Application form from the Dakota County website. Once completed, mail it along with the $9 payment (check or money order payable to “Dakota County Treasurer”) to the Vital Records Office in Hastings. Certified copies are mailed to the requester’s address within 5–7 business days after processing. For security reasons, certified copies are not sent by email or fax.
Fees and Payment Methods
The cost for each certified marriage certificate copy is $9. Payment can be made by cash, check, money order, debit, or credit card when applying in person. Mail-in requests should include a check or money order only. Fee waivers are not available for vital record requests under Minnesota law.
What Is a Divorce Record?
A divorce record contains the official details of a marriage dissolution filed and finalized through the Dakota County District Court. It includes important documents such as the divorce decree, which outlines the court’s final decision; the judgment, which records the official ruling; and the case file, which holds all related documents submitted during the process. These records are not managed by the Vital Records Office but by the District Court in Hastings. Individuals may need a divorce decree for various reasons, such as remarriage, updating a legal name, or providing proof of divorce for financial, immigration, or insurance purposes.
How to Obtain Divorce Records
To find divorce records in Dakota County, start by visiting the Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) system and searching for your case number using party names or case details. Once located, use this case number to request copies of the documents from the Dakota County Court Administrator’s Office. Certified copies, which carry legal validity, cost $14 per copy. Requests can be made in person at the courthouse or by mail by submitting a written request that includes your case number, names of both parties, and payment.
If your case is confidential or sealed, you will need a court order to access it. For assistance, contact:
Dakota County Judicial Center
1560 Highway 55, Hastings, MN 55033
Phone: (651) 438-8100
Staff can provide general guidance on request procedures but cannot offer legal advice.
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Confidential and Restricted Records
Certain case types in Dakota County are not open to public access. These include juvenile matters, adoption cases, domestic violence orders, and records sealed by court order. Only authorized individuals — such as the involved parties, their attorneys, or those with judicial approval — can view or request these files. To gain access to a restricted record, individuals may need to file a motion to unseal or obtain special permission from the presiding judge. The court reviews each request carefully to protect privacy and comply with Minnesota law before granting access.
Processing Time and Delivery
The typical processing period for marriage or divorce record requests is between 5 and 10 business days. Delivery options include mail, in-person pickup, or courier delivery for those needing faster access. To reduce delays, ensure that all forms are filled out completely, case details are accurate, and payment is included. Providing full information at the time of the request helps the court staff process and deliver your records efficiently.
Certified vs. Uncertified Divorce Copies
Certified divorce copies come with an official court seal and are legally recognized for purposes such as remarriage, name changes, or court filings. These copies serve as formal proof that a divorce was finalized and are often required in legal or government-related processes.
Uncertified copies, on the other hand, are for informational use only. They do not carry legal authority but are useful for personal records, genealogy, or general reference. When ordering, it’s important to specify whether you need a certified or uncertified version to avoid delays.
Certified copies generally require identity verification and payment of an official fee, while uncertified copies may be more easily accessible. Always check with the issuing county court or the Minnesota Department of Health to confirm availability, costs, and eligibility requirements.
Marriage License Information
To apply for a Dakota County marriage license, both applicants must appear in person at the local county vital records or registrar’s office. Basic requirements typically include valid identification, proof of age, and payment of a license fee, which is approximately $115 (subject to change). Some counties may offer reduced fees for those completing premarital education courses.
Applicants should note that Minnesota enforces a short waiting period before the license becomes valid, and the license generally remains valid for six months. The same offices that issue marriage certificates also process marriage license applications, ensuring convenience for couples before and after their wedding.
To apply online, visit the Dakota County marriage application portal through the official county website. There, applicants can fill out preliminary forms, schedule appointments, and review specific local requirements. Ensuring all documentation is complete before submission helps avoid delays and ensures the marriage is legally recognized across Minnesota.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you have questions about Dakota County court dockets, you’re not alone. Below, we’ve compiled the most commonly asked questions to help you understand how to check dockets, access hearing information, and track case progress. Each FAQ provides clear, concise answers to guide you through the process. Read on to find the information you need about court schedules, calendars, and records.
Can I order a marriage certificate online?
Yes. You can order a Dakota County marriage certificate online by downloading the Marriage Certificate Application form from the county’s official website. Complete the form and mail it with payment to the Vital Records Office. Online submissions are not accepted directly through email, but you can request mail delivery of your certified copy.
Who can request a copy of a marriage certificate?
Either spouse listed on the certificate, a legal representative, or an individual with tangible interest may request a certified copy. Identification must be provided during the request process to confirm eligibility.
How much does a certified copy cost?
Each certified marriage certificate copy costs $9. Payment can be made by cash, check, money order, debit, or credit card if applying in person. For mail requests, include a check or money order payable to “Dakota County Treasurer.”
Where can I find my divorce decree?
Divorce decrees are available through the Dakota County District Court, not the Vital Records Office. You can look up your case number on the Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) system, then contact the Court Administrator’s Office in Hastings to request copies.
How long does it take to receive copies?
Processing times for marriage and divorce record requests usually range from 5 to 10 business days. Delays can occur if forms are incomplete or if additional verification is required.
Are same-sex marriage records available?
Yes. Same-sex marriage records are filed and issued the same way as any other marriage record. All marriages registered in Dakota County are recorded according to Minnesota law, regardless of gender.
Can I get older records (before 1900)?
Older marriage and divorce records dating back to the late 1800s may be archived. These records can be requested through the Dakota County Historical Society or the Minnesota Historical Society for genealogical purposes.