Cook County Vital Records

The Cook County Clerk's office serves as the official record keeper for births, marriages and deaths that occur in Chicago and suburban Cook County. The Clerk's Bureau of Vital Records provides copies of these documents to eligible individuals upon request.

The Clerk's office also issues marriage licenses to couples who are getting married and administers the county's Domestic Partnership Registry for same-sex couples.

In addition, the Clerk's office certifies notary public commissions approved by the Illinois Secretary of State and the names of businesses that operate under a name other than that of its owner.

Birth Certificates

The Cook County Clerk's office keeps official records of births that occur in Chicago and suburban Cook County.

additional copies of the same record cost $4 each.

$15

Marriage Licenses

Before getting married in Chicago or suburban Cook County, couples must obtain a marriage license from the Cook County Clerk's office.

$40

Marriage Certificates

After a marriage ceremony takes place, the marriage license is filed with the Clerk's office and a copy of the marriage certificate may be purchased.

additional copies of the same record cost $4 each

$15

Death Certificates

Under state law, you may legally obtain a copy of a death certificate if you are a relative or can prove a financial interest in an individual's death.

additional copies of the same record cost $4 each.

$15

Domestic Partnerships

The Cook County Clerk's Domestic Partnership Registry formally records relationships of same-sex couples who live in Chicago or suburban Cook County. Couples are also eligible if one of them works in Chicago or suburban Cook County. Couples must apply for certificates in person and are required to present valid identification.

$30

Notary Commissions

Becoming a notary is a multi-step process beginning with an application from the Secretary of State's office and ending with a commission from the Cook County Clerk.

notary filing holds a fee of $5 if done in person and $10 if done through the mail.

* NOTICE *

Offices Closed on Election Day, Feb. 2, 2010

* NOTICE *

Applying for a marriage license?

We have new Marriage Bureau hours!

Beginning Feb. 1, the Clerk’s downtown marriage bureau will be closed on Saturdays.

Starting Feb. 10, Wednesday hours will be extended until 7 p.m.

Click here for all Vital Records hours.

Download a flyer about the change.

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