Congratulations y’all! I’m so hyped that y’all are getting married!
How do you get married in Champaign, IL?
Here’s your checklist:
- Fill out the Marriage License Application Form
- Schedule Appointment at the Champaign County Clerk’s Office
- Visit the Clerk’s Office in person to obtain your license
- Both parties must be present with valid ID and $75 for the license fee.
- Wait at least one day after receiving your marriage license
- Schedule your Ceremony within 60 days in Champaign County
- Hire an Officiant or go to Champaign County Courthouse
- Return the signed marriage license to the Champaign County Clerk’s Office
Congrats! You're married!
Getting married in Champaign, IL
You have 2 ways to get married in Champaign County:
Schedule an appointment with a judge at the courthouse:
• Champaign County Courthouse: 101 E. Main St., Urbana, IL 61801
• Ceremonies are performed by appointment only.
• A $10 fee applies for ceremonies performed by a judge.
Hire an Officiant to perform your ceremony at your desired location:
• You can get married in a location of your choice with a licensed officiant.
After the Ceremony
• The officiant will sign and return the marriage license to the Champaign County Clerk’s Office.
• You can request certified copies of your marriage certificate afterward.
• Certified copies are $16 for the first copy and $7 for each additional copy.
How to get a Champaign County Marriage License?
First, you’ll need to visit the Champaign County Clerk’s Office
• Location:
• Brookens Administrative Center, 1776 East Washington Street, Urbana, IL 61802
• Office Hours:
• Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Requirements:
- Complete the Online Marriage License Application
- Schedule Appointment
- Provide valid identification
- Pay the $75 fee
Notes:
• Both partners must appear in person at the Champaign County Clerk’s Office at least one day before the ceremony.
• The marriage license is issued the same day but is effective the next day.
• The license is valid for 60 days, and you can get married anywhere in Champaign County.
• Certified copies of your marriage license can be purchased after the ceremony. The first copy is $16, and additional copies are $7 each.
Hiring an officiant
If you’re planning to get married outside of the courthouse or prefer a more personalized ceremony, you’ll need to hire an officiant.
Steps to hire an officiant in Champaign:
1. Find a Licensed Officiant:
In Illinois, officiants can be clergy members, judges, or other designated officials. You can also hire a professional officiant or ask a friend or family member to get ordained online.
2. Check Availability:
Once you’ve found an officiant you like, check their availability for your wedding date and location. It’s best to book early, especially during peak wedding seasons.
3. Discuss the Ceremony:
Meet with your officiant to discuss the details of your ceremony. This can include vows, readings, and any special rituals or customs you want to incorporate. Some officiants offer customizable ceremonies that reflect your unique relationship.
4. Finalize the Details:
Confirm the time, location, and any other logistical details with your officiant as your wedding day approaches. It’s a good idea to have a brief rehearsal to ensure everything goes smoothly.
5. Return the Marriage License:
After the ceremony, the officiant will need to return the signed marriage license to the Champaign County Clerk’s Office. They can do this by mail or in person. This is a critical step to legally complete your marriage.
Notes:
• The officiant can file the marriage license on your behalf, allowing you to focus on enjoying your newlywed status.
• Make sure to obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate for your records after the officiant files it.
Frequently Asked Questions
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE?
The process at the Champaign County Clerk’s Office is quick. You can get your marriage license the same day you apply, but you’ll need to wait at least one day to get married.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GET MARRIED AT A CHAMPAIGN COURTHOUSE?
$75 for the marriage license plus an additional $10 if a judge performs the ceremony there.
CAN YOU GET YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE AND GET MARRIED THE SAME DAY IN CHAMPAIGN?
No, there is a mandatory 1-day waiting period after receiving your marriage license.