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Cook County (Chicago) offers one of the more flexible application processes in the country, including a fully virtual, video-call marriage license option in addition to standard in-person and online-plus-in-person routes.
| License fee | $60. |
|---|---|
| Waiting period | 24 hours after issuance (Illinois statewide rule), waivable by petitioning the court. |
| Documents / ID required | Valid government-issued photo ID for both applicants. No Illinois residency required, but you must obtain the license from the county where your ceremony will take place. |
| License validity | 60 days, beginning one day after the date of issuance (Illinois statewide rule). |
| Where & how to apply | Three options: (1) begin the application online and finish signing in person at a Clerk’s office, (2) apply fully in person, or (3) use the Virtual Marriage License video-call program, by appointment, Monday–Friday between roughly 9:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. |
| Office hours | Standard office hours apply for in-person visits; virtual video appointments run weekdays, one per half-hour, 9:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. |
Special notes
The virtual video-call option is unusual among large counties and can be worth using if getting to an office in person is difficult — pre-registration on the Clerk’s website is required.
Frequently asked questions
Can we really get a Cook County marriage license entirely online?
Largely yes — Cook County’s Virtual Marriage License Issuance program lets you complete the application by scheduled video call rather than visiting an office in person, which is uncommon nationally.
Official source: Cook County Clerk’s Office — https://www.cookcountyclerkil.gov/vital-records/marriage-civil-union/marriage-licenses
Last verified: August 2026
Last verified: August 2026