Chicago Marriage License Requirement

In all the excitement of planning for your wedding, don't forget to take care of the business details by finding out Chicago marriage license requirements. A marriage ceremony can't take place unless a valid marriage license has been issued and you won't be able to apply for it after the ceremony.

Details may vary by county, so it is best to check with your local county Register of Deeds office. A selection of local counties with their contact information is listed below. Both applicants should appear at the Register of Deeds to get a marriage license. Both parties must be at least 18 years old to be legally married. If one or both of the applicants is under legal age, parental consent must be obtained (contact Register of Deeds for additional information). Be prepared to pay a license fee.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

• Social Security Number (provide proof with a W-2 form, payroll stub or statement from the Social Security Office)
• Proper Identification (Drivers License)
• If 18-21 also bring your Certified Birth Certificate
• The marriage license fee is between $15 and $30 and must be paid in cash.

There is no waiting period for an Illinois marriage license, but you must wait 1 day to be married. Be sure to allow adequate time for marriage license processing.

You are responsible for delivering the license to the officiant. They will complete the bottom portion of both copies and return it to the Register of Deeds within 10 days. You may obtain proof of your marriage by completing a copy request form, which will cost $10. Find this form on your local Register of Deeds website.

Local Register of Deeds in the Chicago area

Please call the appropriate office prior to your visit to verify office hours and fees. Obtaining your Chicago marriage license is the one of the last steps in your wedding planning process. Have a wonderful and memorable wedding!