The Illinois Marriage License

By Lei Lydle Founder and Editor Last Updated: 1/1/2000

Getting a marriage license in Illinois is a relatively easy process. Although I believe the following information to be up-to-date, it is always a good idea to double-check the requirements with your County Clerk's Office prior to applying - especially if you have any unusual or questionable circumstances.

Basically, both the bride and groom must be 18 years of age or older to apply for a license without parental consent. The bride and groom may not be blood relatives. The only exception is that first cousins over the age of 50 may marry.

Couples between the ages of 16 and 17 may get a marriage license if they present one of the following:

• Sworn consent (in person) from each parent before the county clerk at the time of application (proper identification of those giving consent is required), OR
• Sworn consent (in person) from each legal guardian or a judge before the county clerk at the time of application (proper identification and guardianship papers of those giving consent is required

The license fee can range from $15 - $30 depending on the county and some offices only accept cash.

For all offices, you both must appear in person to apply for the license. You will be required to prove your age by presenting one of the following:

• valid U.S. driver's license
• valid U.S. passport
• valid U.S. military IDt
• valid U.S. state identification card
• valid Illinois Department of Public Aid card

If, for some reason, you do not have any of the above forms of identification, you must provide 2 of the following:

• certified copy of birth certificate
• valid U.S. resident alien card
• U.S. naturalization papers
• valid foreign passport
• some other identification papers such as baptismal records, life insurance policies, etc. Please check with your County Clerk office for more information.

Blood tests are not required.

In the case of a previous marriage that ended either in divorce or death, be prepared with the divorce papers signed by a judge or death certificate - no matter how long ago the death or divorce occurred.

There is a 1 day waiting period to get a marriage license in Illinois.

In Illinois, non-residents cannot obtain a marriage license if the intended marriage would be void or illegal in their state of residence. Check with your County Clerk office for more information.

The license is valid for 60 days from the date it was issued. (Note: A license issued in Cook county cannot be used in any other county or state.)

To find the Marriage License Office for your county, select the county below: