Congratulations y’all! I’m so hyped that y’all are getting married!

How do you get married in Chicago, IL?


Here’s your checklist:


  1. Fill out a Marriage License Application Form. Here
  2. Visit one of the Cook County Clerk’s Vital Records locations together
  3. Present valid identification with proof of age.
  4. Pay the marriage license fee of $60
  5. Wait at least one day after receiving the marriage license
  6. Schedule your ceremony with an officiant
  7. Attend your wedding
  8. Return the signed marriage license to the Cook County Clerk’s Office within 10 days after the ceremony.


Congrats! You're married!

couples getting married in Chicago, Il

How to get a Cook county marriage license


First, you’ll need to schedule an appointment at one of the Cook County Clerk’s Vital Records locations


Schedule an appointment online here: Cook County Clerk’s Office Locations or call their office.


There are two locations:

Daley Center: 50 W. Washington St., East Concourse, Lower Level 25

Suburban Locations: Skokie, Rolling Meadows, Maywood, Markham, Bridgeview


Requirements:


Go here Online Marriage License Application.


Provide valid identification:

Driver’s License, Passport, or Birth Certificate.


If divorced within the last 6 months:

Provide a certified copy of your divorce decree.


$60 cash or card.


Notes:


• Both partners must be present at the appointment.

• The marriage license is issued on the spot but is effective the next day.

• You can get married in Chicago or anywhere within Cook County.

You will need to get married within 60 days of issuance.

couples getting married in Chicago, Il

Getting married in Chicago, IL


You have 2 ways to get married in Cook County:


Schedule an appointment at the courthouse:

Marriage Court in Chicago: 119 W. Randolph St., Lower Level (City Hall building).

Ceremonies are performed six days a week.

The fee is $10.


Hire an Officiant to perform your ceremony anywhere in Chicago:

• 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 Cook County Clerk’s Office.

You can request certified copies of your marriage certificate afterward.

Order Marriage Certificate

couples getting married in Chicago, Il

Hiring an officiant


If you’re planning to get married outside of the courthouse or simply prefer a more personalized ceremony, you’ll need to hire an officiant.


Steps to hire an officiant in Chicago:


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. To get started, scroll down below to send us a message!


Check Availability

Check their availability for your desired wedding date and location. It’s best to book early, especially during peak wedding seasons.


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.


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.


Return the Marriage License

After the ceremony, the officiant will need to return the signed marriage license to the Cook County Clerk’s Office. They can do this by mail or in person. This is a critical step to legally complete your marriage.

couples getting married in Chicago, Il

Elopement Done for You


Ready to skip the stress and have an epic, intimate elopement in Chicago? We’ve got you covered! Our Elopement Done for You package is designed to make your day seamless and unforgettable.


For $1600, you’ll get:


Photographer + Officiant: Everything you need to make it official and capture every moment.

2-Hour Session: Plenty of time for your ceremony and stunning portraits at iconic Chicago locations.

Edited Photos: Professionally edited images that capture the magic of your day.

Online Gallery: A private, easy-to-access gallery to view and share your photos.

Unlimited Downloads: Download your high-resolution photos as many times as you like.

Wedding photographers in professional attire pose with their cameras at an outdoor venue.

Testimonials for Chicago Weddings


“Glenn and his team was amazing! He made our courthouse wedding in Chicago feel so special. From walking us through the marriage license process to capturing the most beautiful photos along the Riverwalk, everything was seamless. Highly recommend working with him!”

Emily & James


“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Glenn photographed and his team officiated our small ceremony at the Daley Center and made us feel so comfortable the entire time. He even helped us pick a great spot in Millennium Park for photos afterward. We’ll cherish these memories forever!”

Sarah & Michael


“If you’re getting married in Chicago, Glenn is your guy! He was professional, friendly, and made the whole process stress-free. He knew exactly where to go for the best photos in the city, and we couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out!”

Alyssa & Jordan

50 W. Washington St., East Concourse, Lower Level 25

Frequently Asked Questions


How long does it take to get your marriage license in Chicago?

The process at the Cook County Clerk’s Office is quick and straightforward. You can get your marriage license the same day you apply, but there is a mandatory 1-day waiting period before you can get married.


How much does it cost to get married at a Chicago courthouse?

A marriage license in Chicago costs $60. If you plan to have a judge officiate your ceremony at the Chicago courthouse, there is an additional $10 fee.


Can you get your marriage license and get married the same day in Chicago?

No, couples in Chicago cannot get married on the same day they receive their marriage license. Illinois law requires a 1-day waiting period between receiving the marriage license and your ceremony.


Where do you apply for a marriage license in Chicago?

You can apply for a marriage license at any Cook County Clerk’s Office location. The main office is located at:

50 W. Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602 (Lower Level of the Daley Center).


What documents do you need to apply for a marriage license in Chicago?

You’ll need:


• A valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport).

• Your Social Security numbers (you don’t need to bring the actual card).


Is there an expiration date for a marriage license in Chicago?

Yes, a marriage license issued in Cook County is valid for 60 days. Make sure your ceremony is scheduled within this time frame.


Can non-Illinois residents get married in Chicago?

Yes, non-Illinois residents can get married in Chicago. However, you must apply for your marriage license in Cook County if your wedding ceremony will take place in Chicago.


Are witnesses required for a wedding in Chicago?

No, Illinois does not require witnesses to sign your marriage license. However, having witnesses at your ceremony is always a good idea for memories and photos!


Can you have a courthouse wedding in Chicago?

Yes, the Cook County Courthouse offers courthouse weddings. You can schedule your ceremony with a judge after obtaining your marriage license. Make sure to call ahead to confirm availability.


What happens after the wedding?

After your ceremony, your officiant will file the signed marriage license with the Cook County Clerk’s Office. You can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate for an additional $15 fee.


What are the best locations for wedding photos in Chicago?

Chicago has iconic locations for wedding photos, including:


• Millennium Park and “The Bean.”

• The Chicago Riverwalk.

• Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park.

• Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory.