Before tying the knot, know which marriage license suits you.
Available to any couple, regardless of gender. Valid for 60 days from issuance and must be used within the state of Illinois. Both applicants must appear in person to apply.
Provides legal recognition similar to marriage but is separate from a marriage license. Available to both same-sex and opposite-sex couples. Civil unions offer many of the same legal rights and responsibilities as marriage under Illinois law.
Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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Head to your county’s official website to fill out the marriage license application or apply at the county clerk’s office in person.
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To apply for an Illinois marriage license, visit the County Clerk’s office in the county where you plan to get married. Both partners must appear in person with valid IDs, provide necessary documentation, and pay the required fee. The license is valid for 60 days and can only be used in the county where it was issued. A 24-hour waiting period applies before the ceremony can take place.
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Apply for an Illinois marriage license at the county clerk’s office in the county where you plan to marry. Both applicants must appear in person; licenses cannot be obtained remotely. Illinois law prohibits issuing a marriage license if the marriage would be illegal in the applicant’s home state.
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If you're outside the U.S., you can't apply for an Illinois marriage license remotely. You must appear in person at a county clerk's office in Illinois. Both parties must be present with valid identification.
No matter where you’re located, Courtly simplifies the process, helping you secure your online marriage license easily and legally.
Marriage licenses in most states expire within 30–90 days. Make sure to check your state’s rules to avoid last-minute stress.
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Processing times can vary. Applying early helps you avoid delays, especially if your wedding is on a weekend or during peak season.
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Some states allow same-day issuance, while others require a waiting period. Plan ahead to meet your wedding timeline.
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Most offices issue licenses immediately, though some may take a few days. Confirm whether you’ll need to pick it up or if a digital copy is available.
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If your license expires before your wedding, you’ll need to reapply—and repay the fees again. Stay on top of the deadline to avoid extra hassle.
Both applicants must provide a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID. The document must clearly display the applicant’s name, date of birth, and photograph. Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent.
Applicants must provide their Social Security numbers. If an applicant does not have a Social Security number, they must sign an affidavit confirming this.
If either applicant was previously married, they must provide a certified copy of the divorce decree or the death certificate of the former spouse.
There is no residency requirement to obtain a marriage license in Illinois. However, applicants must provide their current address.
Illinois does not require blood tests or medical examinations for a marriage license.
Both applicants must complete and sign a marriage license application at the county clerk’s office. The form typically requires full names, dates of birth, and parents’ names.
Applicants must pay the required marriage license fee, which varies by county, generally ranging from $30 to $75. Most counties accept cash, credit cards, or money orders.
Certain cases need more paperwork
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Make sure your IDs, forms, and application details are accurate to avoid delays.
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Some states offer fee reductions for completing a course—check if it applies to you.
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Avoid last-minute stress by applying in advance and consulting a specialist if needed.
Detailed step by step application process
Or, skip the courthouse entirely!
Apply for a U.S. marriage license entirely online and have your ceremony officiated by
a licensed professional—all from the comfort of your home.
