Where do I go for a marriage license in Illinois?
You will need to apply for a marriage license from the County Clerk’s Office in the county where the wedding will occur. Both parties must be present when filing the application. Although the application varies from county to county, you will generally need to present photo ID when filing the application or else the application will be denied.
 CLICK THE LINK TO YOUR CITY BELOW TO APPLY FOR A MARRIAGE LICENSE
The links below will take you to the county website where the city is located. Not all counties have forms on their site and might only list a contact and phone number.
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What questions does the application ask?
In addition to photo ID, you will generally need to provide both your full names, dates of birth, and social security numbers. The application and process in Illinois differs by county, so you may also need to provide information such as full address, state of birth, occupation, education level, and parent’s full name and addresses if still living.
If either party was previously married, you will generally need to provide the exact date of the final divorce decree or the date of death of the former spouse. Depending on county regulations, you may also need to provide documentation of the dissolution of the previous marriage, so it is best to check with the County Clerk’s Office where you will be applying before you and your spouse apply for the license.
Is there a Illinois state residency requirement?
No, neither you nor your spouse-to-be needs to be an Illinois resident in order to be issued a Illinois marriage license. However, if your marriage would be illegal in your home state but legal in Illinois, you cannot be married in Illinois.
Is there a waiting period after the license is issued?
Yes, there is a 24 hour waiting period in Illinois after the license is issued before you can legally be wed. Generally once issued, the license becomes valid the following calendar day.
Do I have to use the license within a certain amount of time?
Yes, the license expires 60 days after it becomes valid. If you do not formally solemnize your marriage in that time, you will need to reapply at the County Clerk’s Office for a new license.
How much does a marriage license cost?
Again, this will depend on the county where you are applying, but the cost in Illinois for a marriage license generally ranges from $20 to $40.
