What Are Vital Records?
Vital records are official government documents that certify significant life events. In the United States, these records are maintained by state and county vital statistics offices and serve as the primary legal proof of life events.
Types of Vital Records
The four main types of vital records include:
- Birth Certificate — Documents the birth of an individual, including date, location, and parentage
- Death Certificate — Certifies the death of an individual, including cause and manner of death
- Marriage Certificate — Provides legal proof that a marriage took place
- Divorce Certificate — Also called a dissolution of marriage, confirms a divorce was finalized
Why Are Vital Records Important?
Vital records are required for many essential purposes including applying for a passport, obtaining a Real ID or driver’s license, enrolling in school, claiming government benefits such as Social Security, settling estates, and proving legal identity. Without certified copies of these documents, many legal and administrative processes cannot proceed.
How to Obtain Vital Records
Each state maintains its own vital records office. You can typically request certified copies by contacting your state’s Department of Health or vital statistics office. Many states now allow online ordering for faster processing. VitalRecordsOnline.com helps you navigate the process of ordering certified copies from any U.S. state.