Vital Records Online, a secure, US-based service, makes ordering your Maine birth, marriage, and death certificates easy. Rest assured, your documents will be delivered securely, while your personal data remains confidential.
Maine, “the Pine Tree State,” has a population of almost 1.4 million. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is committed to promoting health, safety, resilience, and opportunity for the people of Maine. The Department provides health and social services to approximately one-third of the state’s population.
Maine’s birth, death, fetal death, marriage, divorce, and domestic partnership records are housed at the Vital Statistics Office (DRVS) and most all municipal offices statewide. Maine officially started preserving vital records on January 1, 1892. Vital records created before 1892 may be obtained from the municipal offices where the event occurred or from the Maine State Archives. Birth records of 75 years or older, marriage records of 50 years or older, and death certificates of 25 years or older are available to the public. Those mentioned on the document, spouse or registered domestic partner, parents named on the record, descendants of the person named on the record, guardian, or legal representative may order the vital records.
If you are doing genealogy research, the Vital Statistics Office may be able to help, or else you can try many public archives. Find out what information they contain, where to obtain them, how they are used, and how to get certified copies.
Start Your Application Online for ME Vital Records
Maine Birth Certificate
Request a certified copy of live birth for your baby or child.
Why Do I Need Certified Copies of My Maine Vital Records?
Birth, death, and marriage certificates serve as essential documentation for significant life events. These vital records can be used to prove your identity, nationality, and family ties. They can also be crucial for resolving legal issues, securing inheritances, and researching genealogy. These records offer valuable information about your forebears, including their complete names, birth and death dates, and places of residence. If you misplace any of these certificates, you should report it to the police and request a certified replacement immediately.
Where to Get Maine Vital Records
Each county In Maine certifies and issues vital records that occur within its jurisdiction. You can order Maine vital records online, in person, or via mail. You can locate where to apply for a replacement record in the comprehensive directory below of county vital record providers in Maine. The directory includes locations, contact details, and online birth, death, and marriage certificate applications. Records can also be ordered from the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (MDHSS).
If you’re seeking ancestral records for genealogy research in Maine, they are freely available from various public archives.
Residents of Maine have several options for ordering their vital record copies. Making these requests in person or by mail is possible, but ordering online is the most reliable and sometimes the only available method. The Department of Health and Human Services’s Data, Research, and Vital Statistics division is responsible for producing certified copies of these records. You can request a vital record certificate provided you fulfill the requirements and follow the instructions for ordering, which can differ depending on the certificate type. Once you understand the specific criteria, the process of ordering your certificate is straightforward.
The type of certificate you need and your ordering method can affect the total costs, eligibility, requirements, and processing time. When requesting a certified copy of a vital record from DHHS-DRVS, it is crucial to understand the process and stipulations before applying, whether you choose to do so by mail, online, or in person.
Ordering Maine Vital Records Online
Ordering Maine vital records online is quick and effortless and involves two simple steps:
Complete the online application, upload your documents, and
process your order.
(Choose additional options if you need to insure, expedite, or obtain premium customer support for your application.)
Authorized persons who meet the eligibility requirements can request a Maine birth, death, or marriage certificate online. Ensure you have the necessary documents ready for a smooth application process. You will be prompted to upload copies of these documents in the secure online application.
Vital Records Online streamlines the process of generating and gathering the documents you need for your application, and it provides clear guidance on where and how to submit them. The application can be completed from any internet-enabled device in as little as five minutes. Vital Records Online’s system also helps you avoid the typical errors or omitted documents that can cause application rejection.
✔︎ First-Class mail tracking is included with every online application.
✔︎ Additional copies of your certified vital records can be purchased for the state’s fee during the online application to save future costs.
✔︎ A notarized sworn statement is not required when ordering a Maine birth, death, or marriage certificate online.
✔︎ Vital Records Online’s support team manages scanning, printing, and providing an online notary for your application and documents. Learn more about how the online ordering and premium handling process works.
Ordering Maine Vital Records In Person or By Mail
The Maine Department of Health and Human Services does not offer in-person application services; however, requesting records in person at a municipal health department office may be possible. When you go, ensure the office is open to the public and prepare for potentially long lines. You can apply online more efficiently or by mail if you don’t reside near one of these offices.
Whether you prefer to apply for vital records in person or via mail, the procedure remains the same. If you are applying in person, you will need to complete the following tasks:
gathering your documents,
getting photocopies of your documents,
completing the correct form, and
finally, presenting everything to the health department during regular business hours.
Additionally, by mail, you will need the following:
purchasing an envelope,
including a physical check or a money order, and
issuing it to the DHHS-DRVS
Ensure your request isn’t rejected due to errors or incomplete information by thoroughly checking the specific criteria for each required document before sending out your application packet.
❗️ To avoid your application being denied due to mistakes or incomplete information, review the requirements for each vital record before mailing it.
❗️ Be certain that your documents, application, and payment are submitted to the correct health department that issues certified copies from the preserved original record.
❗️ If you choose to mail your application and documents, we recommend purchasing mail tracking to confirm their arrival at the correct office.
Requirements
It’s important to understand the requirements and conditions of applying for vital record copies before compiling your application documents.
Proof of Identity for Verifying Authorization
To order certified copies of your vital records in Maine, you will need to provide various documents and information, as specified in the table below. A secondary form of identification may suffice if you lack a primary ID.
All applicants must verify their identity, as required by the Data, Research, and Vital Statistics Office of the Department of Health and Human Services. A driver’s license or a state photo ID generally suffices for most record types (verify other acceptable IDs per certificate needed).
What Documents Are Required to Order Vital Records in Maine?
The DHHS-DRVS sets distinct criteria for different certificates and circumstances. Review Maine’s eligibility conditions and requirements for replacing birth, death, and marriage certificates.
❗️ Without proper ID and a fully completed application, your request will be returned, causing considerable delays in processing your order.
State ID Requirements
Certificate
Primary IDs (Need at least one)
Secondary IDs (Need at least two)
Birth Certificate
Driver's license, State Id, Us/Foreign Passport, Valid Government ID
Utility bills, Bank Statement, School Identification Card, Vehicle registration, Income tax return, Marriage certificate, Signed Social Security card, Paycheck stub with imprinted information, W-2, Medical/Medicare insurance card, Voter Registration, College ID, Corrections ID, DD-214 Form, Hospital Birth Worksheet, Letter from Government Agency, Medicaid Card, Medicare Card, Address Verification Document, Previously Issued Vital Record, Rental Agreement, Disability Award from SSA, Voter Registration Card, Work ID
Death Certificate
Driver's license, State Id, Us/Foreign Passport, Valid Government ID
Utility bills, Bank Statement, School Identification Card, Vehicle registration, Income tax return, Marriage certificate, Signed Social Security card, Paycheck stub with imprinted information, W-2, Medical/Medicare insurance card, Voter Registration, College ID, Corrections ID, DD-214 Form, Hospital Birth Worksheet, Letter from Government Agency, Medicaid Card, Medicare Card, Address Verification Document, Previously Issued Vital Record, Rental Agreement, Disability Award from SSA, US Marriage Certificate, Voter Registration Card, Work ID
Marriage Certificate
Driver's license, State Id, Us/Foreign Passport, Valid Government ID
Utility bills, Bank Statement, School Identification Card, Vehicle registration, Income tax return, Marriage certificate, Signed Social Security card, Paycheck stub with imprinted information, W-2, Medical/Medicare insurance card, Voter Registration, College ID, Corrections ID, DD-214 Form, Hospital Birth Worksheet, Letter from Government Agency, Medicaid Card, Medicare Card, Address Verification Document, Previously Issued Vital Record, Rental Agreement, Disability Award from SSA, Voter Registration Card, Work ID
Divorce Certificate
Driver's license, State Id, Us/Foreign Passport, Valid Government ID
Utility bills, Bank Statement, School Identification Card, Vehicle registration, Income tax return, Marriage certificate, Signed Social Security card, Paycheck stub with imprinted information, W-2, Medical/Medicare insurance card, Voter Registration, College ID, Corrections ID, DD-214 Form, Hospital Birth Worksheet, Letter from Government Agency, Medicaid Card, Medicare Card, Address Verification Document, Previously Issued Vital Record, Rental Agreement, Disability Award from SSA, Voter Registration Card, Work ID
What Information is Required to Apply for Vital Records in Maine?
When applying for a vital record in Maine, applicants must provide key identifying information related to the record type. This may include names, dates, locations, and other relevant details to ensure accurate identification and processing of the request.
Certificate
Required Information
Birth Certificate
Date of Birth, Email, Father's Name, Full Name of Person of Record, Mailing Address, Mother's Name, Phone Number, Place of Birth, Your Relationship to the Person of Record, Your Signature
Death Certificate
Date of Death, Email, Full Name of Person of Record, Mailing Address, Phone Number, Place of Death, Your Relationship to the Person of Record, Your Signature
Marriage Certificate
Bride's Name Before Marriage, Date of Marriage, Email, Groom Name, Mailing Address, Phone Number, Place of Marriage, Your Relationship to the Person of Record, Your Signature
Divorce Certificate
Not Restricted
Who is Authorized to Order
Who can request vital records in Maine?
The individual on record can apply for a certified copy of their vital records. However, they must present identification either with the application.
To order a vital record on someone else’s behalf, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for each birth, death, and marriage certificate to confirm that you are authorized to make the request. Only those authorized by the DHHS-DRVS can legally request such records. This includes family members or legal representatives of the individual on record.
Certificate
Authorized People
Birth Certificate
Self, Parent, Child, Sibling, Spouse, Grand Parent, Legal Guardian
Death Certificate
Child, Parent, Sibling, Spouse, Grand Parent, Legal Representative
Marriage Certificate
Self, Child, Parent, Sibling, Spouse, Grand Parent, Legal Representative
Divorce Certificate
Self, Child, Parent, Sibling, Spouse, Grand Parent, Legal Representative
✔︎ If you can provide documentation of legal interest or hold a Power of Attorney from the person on record, you are eligible to request the vital record for that person.
Notarized Statement
Do I need a notary with my application?
A notary is not typically required when obtaining certified copies of Maine birth, death, or marriage certificates, regardless of the order method. The DHHS-DRVS generally only requires notarized affidavits when amending vital records.
❗️ Notarized statement is required when a valid government ID is not available.
✔︎ Vital Records Online includes an online notary service in your application packet. Otherwise, you must bring your ID when creating this document using a local public notary.
Costs and Fees
The costs for replacing vital records vary depending on the type of certificate and the fees set by the DHHS-DRVS. When ordering birth, marriage, divorce, or death records through Vital Records Online, the online Application Filing Service starts at $29. The DHHS-DRVS charges a $15.00 fee for each certified copy of a birth, death, or marriage certificate and a $6.00 fee for each additional certified copy. The total cost will depend on how you submit your application and whether a notary is required for identity verification.
Certificate
First Copy Fee
Additional Copy Fee
Birth Certificate
$15.00
$6.00
Death Certificate
$15.00
$6.00
Marriage Certificate
$15.00
$6.00
Divorce Certificate
$15.00
$6.00
✔︎ Additional copies can be requested in the same order to save future costs in case your vital records are lost, destroyed, or stolen.
VitalRecordsOnline.com processing fee is $29.
Processing and Delivery Times
How long will it take to receive my vital records from Maine?
Processing times for obtaining copies of birth, death, or marriage certificates can differ. Check the current processing and delivery times listed in the table below. Applying with Vital Records Online can speed up the application process by allowing you to complete the entire application process online.
Certificate
Processing Time
Birth Certificate
2 to 5 weeks
Death Certificate
2 to 5 weeks
Marriage Certificate
2 to 5 weeks
Divorce Certificate
2 to 5 weeks
❗️ The processing and replacement duration of birth, death, or marriage certificates by DHHS-DRVS may increase based on a high volume backlog of orders.
❗️ A simple error, typo, or missing document can cause wait times to double, repeat shipping costs, or expose personal information.
How to Track the Status of My Maine Vital Records
After submitting your application through Vital Records Online, you can monitor its progress from start to finish. Every order includes first-class prepaid mail postage, which enables you to track your application packet to the Maine Department of Public Health.
If you send your application packet manually to the vital records health department, purchase first-class mail tracking to confirm its successful arrival. The DHHS-DRVS ships all vital records through USPS first-class mail for secure delivery to your home. However, they do not hold responsibility for any lost or misdirected certificates. If any of your vital records go missing, you should file a report immediately. Remember to review your application packet thoroughly before shipping it, as minor errors or omitted documents can lead to extended waiting periods, additional shipping expenses, or potential exposure of your personal data.
Local Vital Records offices may be closed to the public.
Online Applications are available 24 hrs, 365 days per year.
Address
Hours
Online Application
(DHHS-DRVS)
Department of Health and Human Services – Data, Research, and Vital Statistic office,
220 Capitol Street 11 State House Station,
Augusta, Maine 04333-0011
Phone: (207) 287-3771
Mailing Address:
Vital Records 11 State House Station,
220 Capitol Street,
Augusta, ME 04333-0011
An apostille is required when a vital record is to be submitted to a foreign government. Apostilles are provided by the Secretary of State Division of Corporations, UCC and Commissions for records initially filed with the DHHS-DRVS.
How can I get an apostille for a vital record?
The apostille for Maine vital records can be obtained through either the Secretary of State Division of Corporations, UCC and Commissions, or Vital Records Online. Vital Records Online offers reliable apostille services for birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates. Various governments and organizations recognize our online apostilles service in over 100 countries. The entire process can be conveniently completed online in just three steps, starting at $149 (plus government fees). This service provides professional assistance and ensures legal validity for the apostille quickly and efficiently.
Complete the Apostille Express online application.
Submit the required documents for approval.
Receive your apostille document.
In most cases, you can complete the procedure online, eliminating the need for a physical copy of your documents. Once you have finished the apostille documentation, it will be delivered to your doorstep using FedEx or DHL, regardless of your location within the U.S. or internationally. We utilize trusted courier services for global delivery.
To make this request, you will have to provide the following information:
Completed application form,
document to be authenticated,
notarized statement,
payment of $10 per document.
You can submit requests for vital record apostilles to the Secretary of State Division of Corporations, UCC and Commissions at the following addresses:
For walk-in appointments or express shipping (UPS, DHL, or Federal Express), you can visit or submit the request to the physical address:
Secretary of State Division of Corporations,
UCC and Commissions,
111 Sewall St., 4th Floor, Burton Cross Bldg.,
Augusta, ME 04333
For standard mail, use the following address:
Secretary of State Division of Corporations,
UCC and Commissions,
101 State House Station,
Augusta, ME 04333-0101
Complete the Apostille Express online application.
Submit the required documents for approval.
Receive your apostille to any location worldwide.
Starts at $149 (plus government fee)
Complete your request in three steps
Available for all 50 US states
Recognized by foreign governments and organizations
Legally valid in over 100 countries
Professional support
💻 Complete entirely online.
🖨️ Skip handling physical documents.
✈️ Priority shipping via FedEx or DHL.
🌐 Global shipping.
Corrections and Amendments
To assist people needing to correct or change their vital records, the DHHS-DRVS has provided a list of common scenarios necessitating amendments.
The Department of Health and Human Services – Data, Research, and Vital Statistic Office (DHHS-DRVS) has established a simple procedure for amending vital records such as birth, marriage, or death certificates (as authorized by law). When a vital record is to be changed, an amendment is required, and various forms are needed depending on the information that will be amended. These changes will be added to the record as addendums, as the original document cannot be altered.
The requirements for requesting changes or amendments are determined by the type of vital record that needs to be changed.
Typically, requests to correct or amend vital records will require the following:
A completed amendment application;
Supporting documentation;
Appropriate fee(s);
A notarized sworn statement completed by an authorized person.
The REAL ID Act is a new federal law regarding driver’s licenses that may affect those individuals whose vital records do not match their driver’s licenses. To prevent delays when applying for your Real ID driver’s license, you’re encouraged to review your birth and/or marriage to ensure your name, sex, and date of birth are listed correctly on your Maine vital records.
The DMV prefers a birth certificate when verifying your identity for the REAL ID;
The deadline to obtain a Real ID has been extended to May 7, 2025.
Searching Public Records
Where can I search for free public records?
Finding free public records can be complicated, but many vital records in Maine are freely and readily available to the public. You can search through Maine’s archives of birth, marriage, and divorce records to find the information you want, but be prepared to devote substantial time reviewing records. Maine birth records are made public after 75 years, while Maine marriage records are made public after 50 years. Maine death records are made public after 25 years.
Are Maine vital records open to the public?
Most state records in Maine are public, but the level of access may vary depending on the type of record and the year of the birth, death, or marriage. When researching vital records, exploring third-party websites specializing in specific types of records can be helpful. These websites can provide additional information and serve as a helpful point of reference. However, it’s important to note that the data found on third-party sites may not always align with official government records.
To locate a record on a third-party website, the requester needs to provide the following details:
The location of the record you’re looking for, including the city, county, or state where it was recorded.
The name of the person on record, if it is not a minor.
How Can I Verify That My ME Vital Records Are Official?
To ensure that your certificate is an official certified copy, it is essential to check the official documents’ appearance in the county or municipality where it was issued. Different states, counties, and municipalities may have varying formats for their vital records. One way to identify informational copies of vital records is by looking for a stamp or large print on the document indicating that it is “Informational” and cannot be used as a valid document for establishing identity.
What Are the Differences Between Authorized Copies of Maine Vital Records Versus Informational Copies?
Authorized Copy:
Authorized (certified) copies of vital records are considered legal documents and can be used for official identification purposes. On the other hand, informational copies are not suitable for establishing identity. Certified copies of vital records are only issued to individuals with a “direct and tangible interest” in the document. These copies are intended for those who can demonstrate a legitimate need for the information contained within the records.
Informational Copy:
Informational copies of birth or marriage certificates, also known as short-form, unofficial (non-certified), heirloom, or commemorative certificates, are not official legal documents. They are intended for display or personal reference purposes only and cannot be used for official purposes such as establishing identity, obtaining a passport, or proving eligibility for benefits. These copies are typically used for personal record-keeping or genealogical research. According to the Maine Freedom of Access Act (FOAA), citizens have the right to inspect or obtain copies of public records. Birth records that are 75 years or older, marriage records that are 50 years or older, death records that are 25 years or older, and fetal deaths that are 50 years or older are considered public records. Informational copies can be issued to anyone requesting them. A non-certified copy of a vital record costs $10.00 and is stamped “not for legal purposes.” Individuals not listed on the record must prove their relationship or demonstrate a direct and legitimate interest in the requested record. It is important to note that the ID requirements are the same when ordering non-certified or certified copies, and they can only be obtained by authorized individuals or genealogists unless they are older than the specified time frames. There is a separate application for non-certified copies for adoptees.
Find more references regarding birth, death, and marriage certificates in the resources section.
Find More Online Resources and Information for Vital Records
Select Certificate Type
Vital Records Online allows you to request certified copies of birth, marriage, divorce, and death certificates issued from all 50 states in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
step 2
Complete the Application Form
We have integrated all 50 states’ application forms into one streamlined process. Our user-friendly interface makes it easy to complete the application for the certificate you need, without the hassle of endless internet searches or deciphering complex documents.
step 3
Pay the Fees
Obtaining certified copies is not free. At this step, you can select the number of certified copies you need and pay the following fees:
State Fee
Additional Copy State Fee
Service Fee
Identity Verification Fee
Additionally, you can enhance your experience with:
Expedited Processing
Application Insurance
Premium Customer Support
Expedited Return Envelope
step 4
Review Your Application
Reviewing your application is crucial to avoid delays or rejections. Ensure all information is accurate and there are no typographical errors. Verify your mailing address to ensure the certificate is delivered correctly.
Sign the Application
All applications must be signed by the applicant. Most states allow electronic signatures, but some may require a wet signature.
Provide a Wet Signature (if required)
If a wet signature is required, we will mail all necessary documents, including the application form, ID documents, payment for state fees, and a mailing envelope with a shipping label. Sign the application and the check, then mail the documents to the Health Department using the provided envelope.
step 5
Verify Your Identity
Identity verification is essential as only authorized individuals can request certified copies of vital records. Each state has specific ID requirements.
Visit our website at www.vitalrecordsonline.com, scroll down to the map section, and select the state to view ID requirements. Alternatively, visit your state’s official vital statistics website.
Notarize Your Application (if required)
Some states require notarization of the application. If applicable, you can choose between:
In-Person Notary: We prepare and mail the documents to you, including a map of nearby notary locations.
Online Notary: Partnering with recognized online notarization services, you can complete the notarization process quickly online.
Additional Documents for Non-Listed Applicants
When the applicant is not the same person listed on the certificate, additional documents are required to prove identity and relationship:
Immediate Family Members: Spouses, children, and parents must provide:
• For children or parents: a certified copy of the birth certificate.
• For spouses: a certified copy of the marriage certificate.
Legal Representative/Guardian: Submit a document proving your legal relationship to the person on record.
step 6
Submit and Track Your Application
Once all steps are completed, our team will review your application, payment, signature, and ID verification within 4-5 business days (or 1-2 days with expedited processing). We ensure everything is in order before submitting it to the appropriate health department.
Electronic Filing (California Only): For California, we offer electronic filing with the Health Department database, ensuring faster processing.
Standard Filing: For other states, our team will manually prepare and mail your application documents to the Health Department Office.
Health Department Processing
The Health Department processes your application, with times varying by state. Check current processing times here. Our extensive database helps identify the fastest processing offices for quicker certificate delivery.
Receive Your Certificate
Finally, wait for your certificate to arrive. If you opted for the 2-day return envelope, expect delivery within 2 business days; otherwise, it may take up to 5 business days.