Marriage or Civil Union License Information


Office hours to acquire a license: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

To obtain a license:

Both parties need to be present to apply for the license.

ID Requirements:

Show proof of age and identification. (Acceptable documents are driver’s license or state ID card)

Residency Requirement:

You do not have to be a resident of Illinois
Must be having the ceremony in Ford County

Waiting Period in Illinois:

There is a one day waiting period before you can have the ceremony.

Previous Marriages:

You must provide a certified copy of your divorce if you have been divorced within the last six (6) months.

Fees:

Getting a license in Ford County will cost you $35. Cash only.

Cousin Marriages

First cousins may marry if they are older than the age of 50.



Under 18:

If you are 16 or 17 years of age, you will have to provide a copy of your birth certificate along with some other sort of identification showing your date of birth. You will also need to have the sworn consent from each parent, each legal guardian, or a judge – in person – before the county clerk at the time of application. Your parents or guardians will need to provide identification like a driver’s license, state ID card, Illinois Department of Public Aid card, or passport. If your parent is deceased, you will need to show a death certificate or proof of guardianship, or a court order waiving consent. A legal guardian will also need to show a certified copy of the guardianship papers.

If you are under sixteen (16) years of age, you cannot get a license in Illinois.

Miscellaneous:

License is valid for sixty (60) days only in the county in which it was issued.
You will need to make arrangements with the Judge’s office, if you wish his services.