The ceremony that Patrick officiated for my daughter’s wedding was absolutely beautiful. Patrick researched details of their lives to share with family and friends. These special moments made the ceremony memorable.
Kathy
Patrick took the time to get to know us and hear our story. He was able to incorporate some memories into his services. We also appreciated his flexibility with incorporating our chosen music and readings.
Sheri and Janet
I have to say that it was wonderful to have Patrick as the officiant for our wedding. Working with Patrick Curtin was incredible. He not only was on top of all the details, he made sure the ceremony was custom tailored to us. Being able to work with someone that excels at listening and bringing our vision to life made our day even more special. I highly recommend Patrick to all my friends and family when they are ready to tie the knot
Tim and Matt
Cook County Marriage License FAQ
Before getting married in Chicago or suburban Cook County, couples must obtain a marriage license from the Cook County Clerk’s office.
Eligibility
Under Illinois law, only eligible persons can marry. Both partners must:
- be 18 years of age or older
- not be blood relatives
- not already be legally married to someone else or each other
Exceptions
- Under state law, first cousins older than 50 years of age may marry.
- Under state law, applicants who are 16 and 17 years old may obtain a marriage license with parental consent. Both parents or legal guardians must:
- appear in person
- provide sworn consent of the marriage at that time
- provide valid identification
- If a court-appointed legal guardian is providing consent, a certified copy of the appointment is required.
Applicants who are 16 or 17 must present the following:
- a certified copy of their birth certificate
- a second form of identification showing their date of birth
Couples must appear together at one of the Cook County Clerk’s six locations:
Downtown Chicago – Daley Center 50 W. Washington St. Chicago, IL 60602 Call: (312) 603-7790
- East Concourse (Lower) Level – 25 Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. / Wednesday 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
North suburbs – Skokie 5600 W. Old Orchard Road Skokie, IL 60077 Call: (847) 470-7233
- Room 149 Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. / Wednesday 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Northwest suburbs – Rolling Meadows 2121 Euclid Ave. Rolling Meadows, IL 60008 Call: (847) 818-2850
- Room 238 Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. / Wednesday 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
West suburbs – Maywood 1311 Maybrook Square, Room 104 Maywood, IL 60153 Call: (708) 865-6010
- Room 104 Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. / Wednesday 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
South suburbs – Markham 16501 S. Kedzie Markham, IL 60426 Call: (708) 232-4150
- Room 238 Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. / Wednesday 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Southwest suburbs – Bridgeview 10220 S. 76th Ave. Bridgeview, IL 60455 Call: (708) 974-6150
- Room 238 Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. / Wednesday 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Couples must:
- Fill out and sign a marriage license application.
- The marriage license fee is $60.
- Present valid identification with proof of age.
One form of ID if submitting one of the following:
- State drivers license
- State identification
- S. passport
- S. Armed Forces identification card
– OR –
Any combination of two of these forms of ID:
- Certified copy of Birth Certificate (English translations required for foreign certificates must be notarized)
- S. naturalization certificate
- S. resident alien card
- Life insurance policy (at least 1 year old)
- Foreign passport
- Baptismal record (date of birth must appear)
- Consulate identification card (matricula)
Prior Divorce
Applicants who have divorced must provide the date the divorce was finalized upon applying for a marriage license. Applicants who have divorced within the last six months must provide a certified copy of their divorce decree.
Timelines and Restrictions
Marriage licenses are:
- issued while you wait
- effective the following calendar day after they are issued
- valid for 60 days
- effective only in Chicago and suburban Cook County
After Marriage Ceremony
The celebrant performing the ceremony must complete the bottom portion of the marriage license and mail or deliver it to the Clerk’s office. You may obtain a copy of your marriage certificate upon request.