Vital Records & Certificates in Oak Park, IllinoisCook County Clerk’s Office: Bureau of Vital Records

Oak Park residents frequently need vital records for passport applications, school enrollment in the distinguished District 97 schools, employment verification for Chicago-area jobs, and real estate transactions. The village’s educated population and proximity to Chicago creates high demand for certified documents for professional licensing, college applications, and international travel. Many residents also need certificates for youth sports registration and civic activities.

Oak Park families obtain birth certificates through the Cook County Clerk’s Bureau of Vital Records at 118 N Clark Street in downtown Chicago. Many Oak Park children are born at nearby Rush Oak Park Hospital or West Suburban Medical Center, with their birth records processed through the county system. Cook County charges $15 for the first certified copy and $4 for additional copies ordered simultaneously. The proximity to Chicago means many residents use these certificates for passport applications, school enrollment in Oak Park District 97, or youth sports registration. The Cook County office accepts walk-in requests and provides same-day service for most records.

Couples planning ceremonies at Oak Park’s beautiful venues like the Nineteenth Century Club or Unity Temple must obtain marriage licenses from the Cook County Clerk in Chicago. The historic architecture of Oak Park provides stunning backdrops for weddings, from intimate gatherings at the Oak Park Conservatory to elegant receptions at local venues. Illinois requires a one-day waiting period after obtaining the license, and couples must marry within 60 days. Cook County marriage licenses cost $60, and the downtown Chicago office is easily accessible via the CTA from Oak Park.

Death certificates for Oak Park residents are processed through the Cook County Clerk’s Bureau of Vital Records in Chicago. Families dealing with loss need these documents for insurance claims, estate settlement, and social security matters. The Cook County office provides certified copies for $15 each, with expedited service available. Many Oak Park funeral homes assist families with the initial filing process.

Divorce records for Oak Park residents are available through the Cook County Circuit Court Clerk’s office. These certified copies are essential for remarriage, name changes, or financial matters. The downtown Chicago courthouse maintains all divorce records, charging approximately $4 per page for certified copies. Having the case number expedites the search process significantly.

The Cook County Clerk’s office at 118 N Clark Street in Chicago serves Oak Park residents Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Take the CTA Blue or Green Line to Clark/Lake station, then walk two blocks south. Street parking is limited downtown, so consider using the nearby parking garages on LaSalle or Wells streets. The office accepts cash, checks, money orders, and credit cards for payment.

From Oak Park, take the CTA Green Line east to Clark/Lake station in downtown Chicago, then walk south on Clark Street to the County Building.