How To Get A Copy Of Marriage License

Cook County Vital Records keeps official records of marriages that occur in Chicago and suburban Cook County.

A marriage license is filed with the Clerk's Bureau of Vital Records after the marriage ceremony takes place. The officiant performing the ceremony completes and signs the marriage license and returns it to the Clerk's office, where it is recorded.

After that occurs, the Clerk's office can issue you a certified copy of your marriage certificate upon request. Marriage certificates are not automatically sent to couples.

Three types of marriage certificates

Standard Certificates

Certified legal copies of marriage records are $15 and $4 for each additional copy. Five ways to order are shown below.

Standard Certificate

$15

Wallet Certificates

A set of (2) wallet-sized marriage or civil union records are $15 and $4 for each additional copy. Although smaller, these records are also certified legal copies of your marriage or civil union and perfect for carrying in your pocket. Order in person at one of our six office locations (same-day service available only at our downtown office) or fill out a Request Form and apply by mail. Not available online.

$15

Commemorative Certificates

Art-quality commemorative certificates of a marriage or civil union make an ideal keepsake or gift. Choose from ten original designs by local artists. Ready to frame and printed on canvas, commemorative certificates are $65 and include a free certified legal record. Order online at our commemorative certificate store or visit one of our six office locations.

$65

Requesting a standard marriage certificate

Order one of five ways:

1. In Person

Visit us in person at one of the Clerk's six locations

2. Online

Order Online - A $12.45 processing fee is charged by VitalChek. All major credit cards are accepted.

3. By Phone

Call Toll-Free: (866) 252-8974

4. Write us

Mail your request to:
Cook County Clerk's Office
Bureau of Vital Records
P.O. Box 641070
Chicago, IL 60664-1070

Include the following items:

a check or money order payable to the Cook County Clerk for $15 (additional copies of the same record cost $4 each)
a self-addressed stamped envelope
Note: Be sure to include your phone number with your mail request.

5. Go to a local Currency Exchange

Call (847) 759-8905 for Currency Exchange hours and locations in Chicago and suburban Cook County, or visit www.mycurrencyexchange.com.
There is a $5 surcharge for records obtained at Currency Exchanges.

Requesting a WALLET marriage certificate

Order one of two ways (NOT available online):

1. In Person

Visit us in person at one of the Clerk's six locations.

Same-day delivery available only at our downtown office.

2. By Mail

Mail your request to:
Cook County Clerk's Office
Bureau of Vital Records
P.O. Box 641070
Chicago, IL 60664-1070

Same-day delivery available only at our downtown office.
Include the following items:

- a completed Marriage Certificate Request Form*
- a photocopy of your photo identification
- a check or money order payable to the Cook County Clerk for $15
(additional copies of the same record cost $4 each)
- a self-addressed stamped envelope
- Note: Be sure to include your phone number with your mail request.

Requesting a COMMEMORATIVE marriage certificate

Order one of two ways:

1. In Person

Visit us in person at one of the Clerk's six locations.

Same-day delivery available only at our downtown office.

2. Online