Civil Union Certificates

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

A civil union license is filed with the Clerk's office after the civil union ceremony takes place. The officiant performing the civil union completes and signs your civil union license and returns it to the Clerk's office, where it is recorded.

PLEASE NOTE: Civil union certificates are not automatically sent to couples. After your officiant files your license, the Clerk's office can issue you a certified copy of your civil union certificate upon request.

 Are you a bargain hunter?

If you would like a keepsake or gift as well as a certified civil union certificate, our beautiful, art-quality commemorative certificates come with a FREE certified copy. To view commemorative certificate designs, visit our commemorative certificate store.

Requesting a civil union certificate

If you are purchasing a commemorative certificate, which comes with a FREE certified civil union certificate, you must order online at our commemorative certificate store or visit us at one of our six office locations.

Requesting a civil union certificate

For just a certified marriage certificate, you may order in one of five ways:

1. Order online
2. Order by phone
   • Call Toll-Free: (866) 252-8974
3. Write us
   • Mail your request to:
     Cook County Clerk David Orr
     Bureau of Vital Records
     P.O. Box 641070
     Chicago, IL 60664-1070
     • Include the following items:
       • a completed Civil Union Certificate Request Form*
       • a photocopy of your photo identification
       • a check or money order payable to the Cook County Clerk for $15
         (additional copies of the same record cost $4 each)
       • a self-addressed stamped envelope
       • Note: Be sure to include your phone number with your mail request.
4. Go to a local Currency Exchange
   • Call (847) 759-8905 for Currency Exchange hours and locations in Chicago and suburban Cook County, or visit www.mycurrencyexchange.com
   • There is a $5 surcharge for records obtained at Currency Exchanges
5. Visit us in person at one of the Clerk's six locations