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Cook County, Illinois Marriage License Guide for Officiants

To file a marriage license in Cook County, Illinois, the officiant must return the signed license to the Cook County Clerk's Office within 10 days of the ceremony. No witnesses are required. There is a 1-day waiting period after the license is issued.

Quick Facts

Filing deadline10 days after ceremony
Witnesses requiredNone
Waiting period1 days
License validity60 days
ULC ordination acceptedYes
AMM ordination acceptedYes
StateIllinois

Filing Office

Cook County Clerk's Office

50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 603-7790

How to File as the Officiant

  1. After the ceremony, ensure all required parties have signed the marriage license.
  2. Return the signed license to the Cook County Clerk's Office at 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602.
  3. File within 10 days of the ceremony date to meet the Cook County deadline.
  4. Keep a copy or receipt of the filed license for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file the marriage license in Cook County, Illinois?

As the officiant, you must return the signed marriage license to the Cook County Clerk's Office within 10 days of the ceremony.

How many witnesses are required for a marriage in Cook County?

No witnesses are required on the marriage license in Cook County, Illinois.

Is online ordination accepted in Cook County, Illinois?

In Cook County: ULC (Universal Life Church) ordination is accepted, and AMM (American Marriage Ministries) ordination is accepted. Always verify directly with the county clerk before the ceremony.

Is there a waiting period for a marriage license in Cook County?

There is a 1-day waiting period in Cook County, Illinois. The ceremony cannot take place until 1 days after the license is issued.

How long is a marriage license valid in Cook County?

A marriage license in Cook County, Illinois is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. The ceremony must take place within this window.

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Last verified: April 2026. Always confirm requirements directly with the county clerk's office.