Maryland (MD) Vital Records

Vital Records Online (VRO) is a safe, secure, and simple US-based service for ordering Maryland vital records online. With VRO, you can quickly obtain your Maryland birth, death, and marriage certificates online. Your vital records will be delivered safely to your address, and your private information is guaranteed to remain confidential.

History of Vital Records in Maryland

Maryland Government-Issued Vital Records

The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) began in 1792 (Chapter 56, Acts of 1793). In 1797, after Baltimore was incorporated as a city, the State’s first local health department emerged.

The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) – Division of Vital Records (VR) issues certified copies of Maryland birth, death, marriage, and divorce records for events in Maryland. Vital records in Maryland become open to the public after a statutory confidentiality period passes – 100 years for birth records. Individuals may request their birth certificates along with parents, guardians, spouses, and legal representatives. A surviving relative, an authorized individual, the funeral director who handles the final disposition, or a legal representative may order the death certificate. Marriage records and death certificates in Maryland are public.

If you are doing family tree research, the Vital Records Office can help, or 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 MD vital records

Certified Birth Certificate
Maryland Birth Certificate

Request a certified copy of live birth for your baby or child.

Certified Marriage Certificate
Maryland Marriage Certificate
Obtain marriage records for yourself or a family member.
Certified Death Certificate
Maryland Death Certificate
Get an original copy of a death certificate replacement for a lost record.

Why Do I Need Certified Copies of My Maryland Vital Records?

Vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates are essential for various life events, including marriage, enrolling in school, joining the military, or traveling. These records can prove your identity, citizenship, and family relationships. They can also be valuable in settling legal disputes, claiming inheritances, and conducting genealogical research. Vital records provide essential details about your ancestors, including their full names, birth and death dates, and locations.

In case you have lost a birth, marriage, or death certificate, it is advisable to file a police report and request a certified replacement as soon as possible. Additionally, you can find more helpful information about vital records in the birth, death, and marriage certificate FAQs.

Where to Get Maryland Vital Records

You have multiple options to order Maryland vital records. You can order them online, in person, or via mail. Because vital records are maintained at the county and state levels, each county is responsible for certifying and issuing vital records that occur within its jurisdiction. To find the specific county’s vital record issuing agency, refer to the complete list of Maryland’s County vital record agencies. The list provides locations, contact information, and access to online applications for requesting birth, death, and marriage certificates. The application process may vary by county, with some offering in-person applications by appointment only.

❗️If you’re seeking ancestral records for genealogy research in Maryland, they are freely available from various public archives.

Visiting Vital Records Office

  • Long waiting lines
  • Complex and tedious application process
  • Strict business hours and closed during holidays
  • Extremely busy phone line
  • No trackable application
  • Only checks and money orders

Visit Directory

Ordering Vital Records Online

  • No waiting in long lines
  • Simplified and streamlined application process
  • 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
  • Online assistance by specialists
  • Verification and error checking
  • Custom trackable application interface
  • Convenient fee payment by credit card

Get Started Online

How to Order Maryland Vital Records

Maryland residents have multiple ways to request vital records from their home state, including online, in-person (walk-ins), or by mailing. Online requests are often the most reliable and sometimes the only option available. The Maryland Department of Health – Division of Vital Records produces and certifies copies of vital records if the requirements are met, and the detailed instructions for each birth, death, and marriage certificate are followed. Each type of vital record has conditions; once you understand them, the process becomes straightforward. The type of certificate needed and the ordering method also impact the associated costs, eligibility, requirements, and processing times.

Whether you order online, by mail, or in person, it is essential to thoroughly study the steps and conditions before requesting a certified vital record copy from the MDH-DVR. Ensure you send your documents, application, and payment to the correct vital record location that produces certified copies of the original records.

Ordering Online

Ordering Maryland Vital Records online is quick, effortless, and involves two simple steps.

  1. First, complete the online application, upload your documents,
  2. And process your order.

(Choose additional options if you need to insure, expedite, or obtain premium customer support for your application.)

If you meet the eligibility requirements as an authorized person, you can apply to order a Maryland birth, death, or marriage certificate online. Before starting the process, be certain you possess the required documents and have them ready for upload during the secure online application.

Vital Records Online provides a simplified system that helps you quickly collect and generate the necessary documents. It also directs you to the correct application and submits your packet to the health department’s vital records office, which issues the certified record. The application can be efficiently completed from any device with an internet connection, and the entire process can be finished in as little as five minutes. By following this process, you can avoid application rejections due to common mistakes or missing documents.

✔︎ 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.

✔︎ If required, a notarized sworn statement is included when ordering a Maryland birth, death, or marriage certificate through VRO.

✔︎ 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 In-Person or By Mail

Applying in person is feasible for those who reside within travel distance to the state health department office that issues certified copies of the original vital records. However, be mindful to confirm the office’s hours of operation and whether they are open to the public for walk-ins. You can apply online more efficiently or by mail if you don’t reside near one of these offices.

If you choose to apply in person at the vital records office, prepare to complete the following steps:

  • gathering your documents,
  • getting photocopies of your documents,
  • completing the correct form, and;
  • presenting everything to the health department during regular business hours.

Additionally, when ordering by mail, you will need the following:

  • purchasing an envelope,
  • including a physical check or money order,
  • issuing it to the Maryland MDH-DVR.

Each type of certificate defines specific requirements regarding who is eligible to request a certified replacement. Vital Records Online can help simplify the process and reduce mistakes, leading to quicker processing time.

❗️ 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

Before gathering the documents for your vital record application, it is crucial to understand the conditions and requirements involved.

Proof of Identity for Verifying Authorization: 

To order certified copies of Maryland vital records, applicants must provide the necessary information and documents to prove their identity. The Maryland Department of Health – Division of Vital Records accepts a driver’s license, state-issued photo ID, or passport as valid forms of identification. If the ID expires in less than six months, it can be submitted with an additional secondary form of ID. If a valid ID is unavailable, two pieces of alternative documentation must be provided, with at least one containing the current mailing address. In cases where an acceptable form of ID cannot be provided, getting the application notarized may be required. It is important to note that verification of identity with a valid, government-issued ID or two secondary forms of identity accepted by the MDH-DVR is mandatory for certified birth certificates. Driver’s licenses or state photo IDs are generally acceptable for most types of vital records requests.

What Documents Are Required to Order Vital Records in Maryland?

The Maryland Department of Health – Division of Vital Records (MDH-DVR) has specific conditions and requirements for each type of certificate and personal circumstance. Carefully review the eligibility details and requirements for obtaining certified replacements for Maryland birth, death, and marriage records.

An authorized representative of a surviving relative of the deceased will need documentation such as:

  • Letter of Administration
  • Signed by the Court Clerk or the Register of Wills
  • OR, Authorization of Release
    • Signed by a surviving relative
    • Must include a copy of the surviving relative’s valid ID
    • Must include the name of the deceased
    • It must include the relationship of the surviving relative to the deceased.

❗️ Without proper ID and a fully completed application, your request will be returned, causing considerable delays in processing your order.

Certificate Required Information ID Requirements Options Secondary IDs
Birth Certificate Certificate Number,
Current Age,
Date of Birth,
Daytime Phone Number,
Email,
Father's Name,
Full Name of Person of Record,
Hospital of Birth,
Mother's Maiden Name,
Place of Birth,
Purpose for the Certificate,
Sex,
Your Name,
Your Relationship to the Person of Record,
Your Signature
Non-Driver Photo ID,
Passport,
State Driver's License
Bank Statement,
Letter from Government Agency,
Pay Stub,
Rental Agreement,
Utility Bill,
Vehicle Registration,
W-2 Form
Death Certificate Age at Death,
Date of Death,
Daytime Phone Number,
Email,
Full Name of Person of Record,
Funeral Home Name,
Mailing Address,
Place of Death,
Purpose for the Certificate,
Sex,
Your Name,
Your Relationship to the Person of Record,
Your Signature
Valid Government ID Bank Statement,
Letter from Government Agency,
Pay Stub,
Rental Agreement,
Utility Bill,
Vehicle Registration,
W-2 Form
Marriage Certificate Bride Name,
Date of Marriage,
Daytime Phone Number,
Email,
Groom Name,
Mailing Address,
Place of Marriage,
Purpose for the Certificate,
Your Name,
Your Relationship to the Person of Record,
Your Signature
Non-Driver Photo ID,
Passport,
State Driver's License
Bank Statement,
Letter from Government Agency,
Pay Stub,
Rental Agreement,
Utility Bill,
Vehicle Registration,
W-2 Form

Who is Authorized to Order

Who can request vital records in Maryland?

The person on record can request a certified copy of their vital records, but they must provide proof of identity when making the request. If you need to request a birth, death, or marriage certificate on someone else’s behalf, review the eligibility requirements to ensure you are authorized. The eligibility of third parties varies depending on the type of certificate. Authorized third-party applicants can refer to the table below for birth and death certificates. Third parties can only legally request a copy of a vital record permitted by the Maryland MDH-DVR, such as family members or a legal representative of the individual on record. Generally, the Maryland MDH-DVR allows a third party to legally request a copy of the vital record as long as they have a familial or legal relationship to the individual on record and provide proof of it.

Certificate Authorized People
Birth Certificate Legal Guardian, Legal Representative, Parents, Person on Record, Spouse
Death Certificate Funeral Director, Heir, Legal Representative
Marriage Certificate Attorneys, Funeral Director, Legal Representative, Person on Record

✔︎ 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 Sworn Statement

Do I need a notary with my application?

The MDH-DVR does not require applicants to obtain notarized statements when requesting certified copies of their birth or marriage certificates. For death certificates, immediate family members of the individual on record do not need notarizations, regardless of whether the request is made online, by mail, or in person. However, authorized representatives must provide either a court order or a notarized statement signed by a person named on record.

The MDH-DVR may require notarized statements for record amendments. Individuals with a “direct, tangible interest,” such as family members or legal representatives, can only obtain certified death certificates. An online notary is included with your order when ordering through Vital Records Online.

❗️ A Notarized sworn statement may be required under the following circumstances:

  • If a third party who is not the parent, spouse, or legal guardian of the individual on record requests a certified copy of a Maryland birth certificate.
  • If a third party requests a certified copy of a Maryland marriage certificate.
  • Authorized representatives must submit a court order or a notarized statement signed by a person named on record.
  • When ordering a Maryland birth certificate in person, online, or by mail, if the applicant is not the registrant, parent(s) listed on the birth record, or legal guardian.

You can find more information about unique circumstances that may require a notary with your application on the MDH-DVR website at https://health.maryland.gov/vsa/Pages/certs.aspx. If you choose to use a local public notary, you will need to bring your ID to create the required document. It is important to note that notaries may be necessary for apostilles, corrections, or amendments to vital records under certain conditions. For further details on these conditions, please refer to the other FAQs.

✔︎ 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

When replacing vital records, the costs will depend on the fees set by the Maryland Department of Health – Division of Vital Records (MDH-DVR) for each type of certificate. It’s important to be aware of these fees and costs when applying for replacement vital records to ensure a smooth and successful process. The total cost may also be influenced by how you submit your application and whether a notary is required to prove your identity.

To order vital record replacements from Maryland, the fees are $10.00 per copy for a birth record, $12.00 per copy for a marriage certificate, $10.00 per copy for a death certificate, and $12.00 per copy for additional death certificate copies.

The online Application Assistant provided by Vital Records Online starts at $29, which includes automated document processing and first-class shipping & handling.

Certificate Fee Additional Copy
Birth Certificate $10.00 $10.00

✔︎ Additional copies can be requested in the same order to save future costs in case your vital records are lost, destroyed, or stolen.

Vital Records Online Logo VitalRecordsOnline.com processing fee is $29.

Processing and Delivery Times

How long will it take to receive my vital records from Maryland?

Processing and replacement times for birth, death, or marriage certificates may vary. Check the current processing and delivery times, which can be found in the table below. The method you choose to submit your application and documents can also impact the overall time it takes to receive your vital record by mail. By ordering through Vital Records Online, you can simplify the process of gathering documents and submitting your application packet, with the option to expedite your order for faster processing. It is worth noting that these times are subject to change based on the volume of requests received by the MDH-DVR.

Certificate Processing Time Rush Processing Time
Birth Certificate 2 to 4 weeks N/A
Death Certificate 2 to 4 weeks N/A
Marriage Certificate 2 to 4 weeks N/A
Divorce Certificate 6 to 7 weeks N/A

❗️ The processing and replacement duration of birth, death, or marriage certificates by the MDH-DVR 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 My MD Vital Record?

After submitting your application through Vital Records Online, you can easily track the progress of your order and monitor its processing status by visiting the order monitoring page. You can track your application packet to the Maryland Department of Health – Division of Vital Records using the prepaid mail postage provided with your order. If you choose to send the application packet manually, it is advisable to purchase first-class mail tracking to ensure its safe arrival. It is important to note that the Maryland MDH-DVR ships all vital records via USPS first-class mail for enhanced security. However, they cannot be held responsible for misdirected or lost certificates. If your birth certificate is lost, it is crucial to report it immediately. To safeguard your personal information, it is essential to avoid any minor errors or typos that could result in the delivery of your documents to the incorrect address.

Find more frequently asked questions below the Maryland counties office locations directory.

Maryland (MD) Vital Record Office Locations

Local Vital Records offices may be closed to the public.

Online Applications are available 24 hrs, 365 days per year.

Search (A-Z) Maryland vital records issuing agencies in your county.
Address Hours Application
(MDH-DVR)

Maryland Department of Health – Division of Vital Records, 
6764B Reisterstown Road,
Baltimore, MD 21215

Phone: (410) 764-3038

Mailing Address:

Maryland Department of Health – Division of Vital Records, 
Division of Vital Records,
P.O. Box 68760,
Baltimore, Maryland 21215-0036

The Maryland Division of Vital Records will be open to customers by appointment only Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Prince George's
Wayne K. Curry Administration Building
1301 McCormick Drive
Largo, MD 20774
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
City of Baltimore
City Hall - Room 250
100 N. Holliday St
Baltimore, MD 21202
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Anne Arundel County
2662 Riva Road Heritage Complex - Building 2662
Annapolis, MD 21401
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Baltimore County
400 Washington Avenue
Towson, MD 21204
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Montgomery County
100 Maryland Avenue
Rockville, MD 20850
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Allegany County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Baltimore city
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Calvert County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Caroline County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Carroll County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Cecil County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Charles County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Dorchester County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Frederick County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Garrett County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Harford County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Howard County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Kent County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Prince George's County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Queen Anne's County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Somerset County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
St. Mary's County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Talbot County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Washington County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Wicomico County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Worcester County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
❗️ Displays the first 20 counties. Use the search to find your county.
Find additional Maryland Vital Records locations at onlinevitals.com

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Apostille

How can I get an apostille for a vital record?

An Apostille is required when a vital record needs to be filed with a foreign government. Apostilles can be ordered through the Secretary of State or Vital Records Online in Maryland-issued vital records. Vital Records Online offers reliable apostille services across all 50 US states and is acknowledged by various governments and organizations with legal validity in over 100 countries. Their service covers apostilles for Birth, Death, Marriage, and Divorce Certificates, all with professional assistance.

VRO Postille Express service starts at $149 (plus government fees); the entire process can be conveniently completed online in just three steps:

  1. Complete the Apostille Express online application.
  2. Submit the required documents for approval.
  3. Receive your apostille document.

Under most circumstances, acquiring a physical rendition of your papers isn’t necessary, allowing you to complete the procedure online. Once your apostille documentation is complete, it will be dispatched through FedEx or DHL. The delivery will arrive at your doorstep regardless of your location, whether in the US or elsewhere, as they rely on reliable courier services for global delivery.

If you are having certifications done by mail, make sure to include your check or money order, a note stating in which country the documents will be used, and how to contact you if there are any questions concerning your documents. Also, provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope or prepaid express delivery service, such as FedEx or UPS.

To request an apostille manually, you will need to provide the following information: 

  • A check or money order.
  • A note stating in which country the documents will be used and how to contact you if a small question should arise concerning your documents.
  • A stamped, self-addressed envelope or prepaid express delivery service, such as FedEx or UPS.

You can submit requests for vital record apostilles to the Maryland Department of Health – Division of Vital Records (MDH-DVR) at the following addresses:

For express shipping (UPS, DHL, or Federal Express), submit the request to the physical address:

Office of the Secretary of State,
16 Francis Street,
Annapolis, MD 21401

For standard mail, use the following address:

Office of the Secretary of State,
16 Francis Street,
Annapolis, MD 21401

In Person (Walk-in) Address:

16 Francis Street, Wineland Building,
Annapolis, MD 21401

You can reach the office at (410) 974-5521 or https://sos.maryland.gov/Certifications/Pages/default.aspx.

Correcting or Amending Vital Records

The MDH-DVR provides a straightforward process for correcting or amending birth certificates, marriage certificates, or a family member’s death certificate as authorized by law. An amendment is necessary when a vital record needs to be changed, and different forms are required based on the specific information that needs to be amended. Supplemental changes are added as addendums to the original vital record, but the original document cannot be altered by any entity. It is important to note that the requirements for requesting changes or amendments vary depending on the type of vital record that needs to be changed. In certain cases, obtaining a court order may be necessary, which often requires the assistance of an attorney.

Correcting or amending vital records usually will require the following: 

  1. A completed amendment application;
  2. Supporting documentation;
  3. Appropriate fee(s);
  4. A notarized sworn statement completed by an authorized person.

Learn more about correcting or amending birth, death, and marriage certificates.

REAL ID ACT

  • 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 7th, 2025.

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 are encouraged to review your birth and/or marriage to ensure your name, sex, and date of birth are listed correctly.

Search Public Records

Where can I search for free public records?

Finding free public records can be complicated, but many vital records in Maryland are freely and readily available to the public. Maryland death certificates are made public after 10 years. Maryland birth certificates are made public after 100 years. You can search through Maryland’s archives of birth, marriage, and divorce records to find the information you want, but be prepared to devote substantial time reviewing records.

Are Maryland Vital Records Open to the Public?

Maryland Vital Records are open to the public, although access may vary depending on the record type and year of the event. Third-party websites can help research specific types of vital records, but it’s important to note that the data on these sites may differ from official government records. When searching on a third-party website, you’ll typically need to provide the location of the record (city, county, or state) and the name of the person listed on the record (if applicable). Maryland residents can inspect or obtain copies of public vital records under the Maryland Public Information Act (PIA).

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 to Verify if Your Vital Record is Official

You can check the document’s appearance to ensure you have the official certified copy of your birth, death, or marriage certificate. Each state, county, and municipality issues unique designs for their vital records. A stamp or large print can identify informational copies of vital records on the document stating “Informational, Not a Valid Document to Establish Identity” or something similar. To verify if your certificate is a certified copy, you can refer to the official, certified documents in the county where it was issued.

What Are the Differences between Authorized Copies Versus Informational Copies?

Authorized Copy:  

Authorized (certified) copies of vital records are authorized and considered legal documents suitable for official identification purposes. Certified copies are provided only to individuals with a direct and tangible interest in the document. On the other hand, informational copies are not accepted as proof of identity.

Informational Copy: 

Uncertified copies of birth or marriage certificates are not official legal documents, also known as short-form, unofficial (non-certified), heirloom, or commemorative certificates. They are intended for display or personal reference and cannot be used for official purposes such as establishing identity, obtaining a passport, or proving eligibility for benefits. However, they can be used for personal record-keeping or genealogical research.

In Maryland, the Department of Health offers uncertified copies of certificates in the archives. Uncertified copies of archived birth certificates are available for births before 1925, and uncertified copies of archived death certificates are available for deaths before 2014. These uncertified copies can only be obtained by authorized individuals with approved identification.

It’s important to note that citizens have the right to inspect or obtain copies of public records in compliance with the Maryland Public Information Act (PIA). The eligibility criteria for obtaining uncertified copies from the archives may vary depending on the year the original certificate was created.

Please refer to the following links for more information and to request uncertified copies from the archives:

Find more references regarding birth, death, and marriage certificates in the resources section.

Share this page:

Menu