Illinois State Marriage Laws 

Couples planning to tie the knot in Illinois, also known as The Prairie State, must be at least 18 and must provide proof of age and valid identification, which can include a driver’s license, state ID card, passport, military ID, etc.  If these are not available, two of the following must be submitted when applying for a marriage license: a certified copy of his/her birth certificate, a life insurance policy that provides a birthdate and has been in effect for one year, a valid passport, US resident alien card, etc.  Neither blood nor medical tests are required, but there is a 24-hour waiting period.  If either of the intended were previously married, a certified copy of the divorce decree must be provided.   

Individuals who are under the age of 18 and wish to be married in the state of Illinois must have a copy of their birth certificate and one other form of identification confirming their birthdate.  A sworn consent from each parent, legal guardian or a judge is required and must be performed before the county clerk at the time an application for a marriage license is submitted.  Parents and/or a legal guardian must provide a valid ID and guardianship papers (if applicable).  Illinois does not permit those under the age of 16 to be married. 

The state of Illinois does not have any residential requirements, which means you can exchange vows even if you are not a resident of the state.  Vacationers, former residents and all others are free to tie the knot here.  Once granted, an Illinois marriage license is valid for 60 days. Application and/or marriage license fees may vary by county, which means you must check with the local courthouse regarding the actual cost and acceptable payment methods.  The average fee starts at $30.00, but may be more depending on the county.  It is advisable that applicants have cash on hand as most counties require this type of payment. 

Same sex marriage is not permitted in the state of Illinois.  Common law marriages, which are those that a state may acknowledge after a couple has lived together for a certain amount of time, are not recognized in the state.  A wedding can be officiated by an ordained minister, current or retired judge and public officials who have the power to conduct a wedding ceremony. 

Planning a wedding isn’t state law, but it certainly makes for a more memorable experience.  The official state flower, which is the violet, would be ideal for a bridal bouquet, wedding decorations, etc.  There are a number of tranquil locations, resorts and tourist destinations that would make Illinois a perfect choice for an upcoming wedding. 

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only.  It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional legal advice.  Marriage laws and requirements can change, which means that you should check with your county courthouse regarding the application process for a marriage license, laws, fees and other requirements.   

To obtain a copy of an Illinois marriage certificate, send $5.00 to: Division of Vital Records

Illinois Department of Public Health, 605 West Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62702-5097.  Certified copies may only be obtained in the county where the marriage license was issued.

Illinois Family Code

Chapter 750, CS, Part 3 provides information on Illinois' marriage laws.