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:
- Fill out a Marriage License Application Form. Here
- Visit one of the Cook County Clerk’s Vital Records locations together
- Present valid identification with proof of age.
- Pay the marriage license fee of $60
- Wait at least one day after receiving the marriage license
- Schedule your ceremony with an officiant
- Attend your wedding
- Return the signed marriage license to the Cook County Clerk’s Office within 10 days after the ceremony.
Congrats! You're married!
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.
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE?
The process at the Cook 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 CHICAGO COURTHOUSE?
$60 for the marriage license and an additional $10 if you get married by a judge at the courthouse.
CAN YOU GET YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE AND GET MARRIED THE SAME DAY IN CHICAGO?
No, there is a mandatory 1-day waiting period after receiving your marriage license.
