How to get married in Peoria, Illinois

How to get a Peoria County Marriage License

First, you’ll need to visit the Peoria County Clerk’s Office

Location:

Peoria County Courthouse, 324 Main Street, Room 101, Peoria, IL 61602

Office Hours:

Monday - Friday | 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Requirements:

Complete the 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.

Pay with $75 cash, check, debit, or credit card (additional fees apply for card payments).

Notes:

• Both partners must appear in person at the Peoria 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 Peoria 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 Peoria:

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 Peoria 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.

Getting married in Peoria, IL

You have 2 ways to get married in Peoria County:

Schedule an appointment with a judge at the courthouse:

• Peoria County Courthouse: 324 Main Street, Peoria, IL 61602

• Ceremonies are performed in-person or via Zoom.

• 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 Peoria 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE?

The process at the Peoria 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 PEORIA COURTHOUSE?

$75 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 PEORIA?

No, there is a mandatory 1-day waiting period after receiving your marriage license.