For birth and marriage certificates, please enclose a check or money order payable to Cook County Clerk for $15 ($4 for each additional copy). Death certificates are $17 ($6 for each additional copy).
a self-addressed stamped envelope Note: Be sure to include your phone number with your mail request.On average, mail orders are processed within 20 working days from the date the request is received by this office.
Most records are printed on demand while you wait at any of our locations (downtown and three suburban courthouses).
Marriage License Request: Can I get a marriage license from the Clerk’s Office?
Before getting married in Chicago or suburban Cook County, couples must obtain a marriage license from the Cook County Clerk's office and have the option to complete the marriage license application process in-person, as per state statute, and Couples can now apply for a marriage license online via videoconferencing technology pursuant to the Executive Order.
Virtual Marriage License Issuance via Online Video Call – Couples who meet the criteria/prerequisites will be able to pre-register for a Marriage License on the Clerk’s office website and will be emailed their scheduled appointment time and URL to access and submit an online marriage application. The couple will then be contacted via phone during their scheduled appointment to complete the Marriage License process by virtual video meeting to have the license issued.
Marriage License Registration: I recently mailed in my marriage license within the 10 days noted on the reverse side of the marriage license, when will my marriage license get recorded?
Your marriage license will be recorded when it is received in our office. The 10-day return period will not affect the recording of your marriage license.
Civil Union Licenses
Before formalizing a union in Chicago or suburban Cook County, couples must obtain a civil union license from the Cook County Clerk's office and have the option to complete the marriage license application process in-person, as per state statute, and Couples can also begin their civil union license application process online!
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 above.
$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 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 locations.
$65
Notary Request: Can you process my Notary Registration?
The Illinois Secretary of State processes all notary public applications. You can print an application to become a notary public at the Secretary of State's website or call (217) 782-7017.
Authentic Notaries / Apostilles
An apostille certifies the validity of an Illinois notary public, county clerk, circuit clerk or local registrar. This special certification is accepted by foreign countries as proof that specific documents are official.
Apostilles are issued by the Index Department of the Illinois Secretary of State's office:
Main Office:
Illinois Secretary of State's Office
Index Department
111 E. Monroe
Springfield, IL 62756
(217) 782-7017
Chicago Office (Walk-in):
Illinois Secretary of State's Office
Index Department
17 N. State St.
Suite 1010
Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 814-2067
Assumed Business Request: How do I access online services for an Assumed Business Name Registration?
The Cook County Clerk's office registers business names known as "assumed names" for new businesses in accordance with Illinois law.
An assumed name is issued to any business entity that uses a name other than the name(s) of the individual(s) who own or operate the business. For example, a business called "John Jones, P.C." (i.e. owner's full name and title) does not have to file an assumed name, but "Jones Wrecking" does.
The Clerk's office also allows the public to search for businesses and owners by name, address, or registration number.
