Weddings For You

Getting your Illinois marriage license.

A short walk-through for couples planning to marry in Central Illinois. The license is the legal half of the wedding — the part that turns a ceremony into a marriage on paper.

  1. Step one

    01

    Apply in the county you will marry in

    Apply for your license in the Illinois county where the ceremony will be held, not the county you live in. For ceremonies in Tazewell, Peoria, Woodford, McLean, or surrounding counties, apply at that county clerk’s office. Both partners need to appear in person.

  2. Step two

    02

    Bring valid ID and the fee

    Each partner must bring a government-issued photo ID and a certified birth certificate. Most county clerks accept cash, card, or money order. Fees vary by county but generally range from $30 to $75.

  3. Step three

    03

    Wait the one-day waiting period

    Illinois requires a one-day waiting period after you apply before the license becomes valid. The license is then valid for 60 days from the date it becomes effective. Plan to apply at least a few days before the wedding.

  4. Step four

    04

    Bring the license to the wedding

    Bring the license with you on the wedding day. I sign it together with you and two witnesses immediately after the ceremony, then file it with the county clerk within ten days. You receive a certified copy by mail.

Frequently asked

Do we need a blood test?

No. Illinois removed the blood test requirement decades ago.

What if one of us was previously married?

Bring a certified copy of the divorce decree or, in the case of a death, the death certificate of the previous spouse.

Can we apply online?

Some Illinois counties allow you to start the application online, but both partners still have to appear in person at the clerk’s office to sign and pay. Check your county clerk’s website.

What happens after the wedding?

I file the signed license with the county clerk within ten days. The clerk records it and mails you a certified copy. Order at least two extra certified copies — you will need them for name changes and for travel.

Still have questions?

I have walked dozens of couples through this exact process. Ask anything — we will sort it out together.