Get your North Carolina birth, death, and marriage certificates online with VRO – a secure US-based service. VRO ensures that your vital records are delivered to your home safely and securely while keeping your private information confidential.
Summary:
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) originated from the former North Carolina Department of Human Resources (DHR). The DHR was created in 1971 as an umbrella to consolidate more than 300 free-standing state agencies. The first Secretary of Human Resources, Dr. Lenox Baker, was appointed by Governor Robert W.
North Carolina Vital Records is part of the NCDHHS Division of Public Health in Raleigh, NC, and is responsible for recording North Carolina’s vital events in partnership with county registers of deeds offices, local health departments, and birthing facilities throughout the state. This includes legally registering all births, deaths, fetal deaths, marriages, and divorces in North Carolina, coding vital events for statistical purposes, maintaining vital records, and providing certified or uncertified copies to individuals, researchers, and public health programs.
Find out how to obtain official North Carolina vital records, including birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates. Find out what information they contain, where to order them, how they are used, and how to get certified copies.
Start Your Application Online for NC Vital Records
Request a certified copy of live birth for your baby or child.
Obtain marriage records for yourself or a family member.
Get an original copy of a death certificate replacement for a lost record.
Vital records are important documents that serve as proof of identity, citizenship, and family relationships. Birth, death, and marriage certificates are necessary for various life events like getting married, enrolling in school, serving in the military, or traveling. They also play a crucial role in resolving legal disputes, claiming inheritances, and conducting genealogical research. Vital records provide valuable information about your ancestors, including their full names, dates of birth and death, and locations. If you have misplaced a birth, marriage, or death certificate, it is essential to file a police report and request a certified replacement promptly. For more information about vital records, please refer to the FAQs for birth, death, and marriage certificates.
North Carolina vital records can be obtained online, in person (by appointment only), or via mail. In the United States, vital records are maintained at both the county and state levels. Each county is responsible for certifying and issuing vital records that occur within its jurisdiction.
While the process may vary by county, many offer in-person applications. Birth, death, and marriage certificates are maintained and issued centrally by the North Carolina NCDHHS-NCOVR and the county Register of Deeds offices.
❗️If you’re seeking ancestral records for genealogy research in North Carolina, they are freely available from various public archives.
Visiting the Vital Records Office
Ordering Vital Records Online
The NCDHHS-NCOVR is responsible for producing and certifying copies of vital records. It’s essential to understand the specific requirements for the type of certificate you need, as each type of vital record has unique requirements, eligibility, costs, and processing times. Ordering online is the most reliable and convenient method to request a certified vital record copy. However, if you prefer, you can also order by mail or in person (by appointment only).
When requesting a certified copy of a vital record from NCDHHS-NCOVR, be certain your application, documents, and payment are submitted to the correct office that issues certified copies of the original records.
❗️ The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Vital Records requires appointments for in-person services.
Ordering North Carolina vital records online is quick and effortless and involves two simple steps:
(Choose additional options if you need to insure, expedite, or obtain premium customer support for your application.)
Ordering North Carolina vital records online is a quick and effortless process. If you meet the eligibility requirements as an authorized person, you can apply to order a North Carolina birth, death, or marriage certificate online. Before starting the application, review the required information and documents to upload copies of them during the secure online application.
Vital Records Online provides a simplified system that helps you collect and generate the necessary documents, directs you to the correct application, and submits your packet to the health department vital records office that issues the certified record. The application is easy to complete from any device with an internet connection and can be finished in as little as five minutes. The online application is designed to minimize the chances of application rejections due to common mistakes or missing documents. Additionally, if a notary is required for your application, it can be conducted virtually during the online ordering process.
✔︎ Our $29 processing fee includes your automated document processing and first-class shipping & handling.
✔︎ Additional copies of your certified vital records can be purchased for the state’s fee during the online application to save future costs.
✔︎ Vital Records Online’s support team manages scanning and printing your application and documents. Learn more about how the online ordering and handling process works.
✔︎ For most applicants, a notarized sworn statement is not required when ordering a North Carolina birth, death, or marriage certificate online.
Applying in person is ideal for those who reside within travel distance of the state health department office that issues certified copies of the original vital records. Note that visiting the office is by appointment only. It is also advisable to confirm if the office is open to the public for walk-ins, as there may be long queues.
Ordering via mail can be a reliable option if the local vital records office is closed or for those living out of state. Additionally, residents living abroad can rely on mail or choose to order online, which is often the most convenient method. The requirements for applying for vital records in person or by mail are similar, with only a few additional steps.
If you choose to apply in person at the vital records office, prepare to complete the following steps:
Additionally, when ordering by mail, you will need to complete the following tasks:
It’s important to note that each type of certificate has specific requirements for who is eligible to request a certified replacement. However, Vital Records Online can make the process easier and less prone to errors, leading to faster processing times.
❗️ 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.
❗️ Before receiving approval, confirm if you must also have your documents and application notarized with a sworn statement for identity verification. A notarized statement is only required as additional documentation for certain third-party applicants.
❗️ If you choose to mail your application and documents manually, it is recommended to purchase mail tracking to confirm their arrival at the correct office.
Understanding the conditions and requirements is crucial before gathering the documents for your vital record application. It is of utmost importance to ensure that you clearly understand what is needed to proceed with your application successfully.
Proof of Identity for Verifying Authorization:
The NCDHHS-NCOVR requires all applicants to provide proof of identity when applying for a certified vital record replacement. Most records can be obtained with a driver’s license or a state-issued photo ID. However, if you do not have a valid form of identification, you must submit two secondary forms of identification. A notarized statement may also be required as additional documentation for certain third-party applicants.
What Documents Are Required to Order Vital Records in North Carolina?
The NCDHHS-NCOVR defines specific conditions for each type of certificate and personal circumstance. Review the table below for acceptable forms of identification and the required information for 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.
What Information is Required to Apply for Vital Records in North Carolina?
When applying for a vital record in North Carolina, 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, Daytime Phone Number, Email, Father's Name at Birth, Full Name at Birth, Mailing Address, Mother's Maiden Name, Place of Birth, Purpose for the Certificate, Sex, Your Name, Your Relationship to the Person of Record, Your Signature
Death Certificate
Age at Death, Date of Birth, Date of Death, Daytime Phone Number, Email, Full Name at Birth, Full Name of Person of Record, Mailing Address, Place of Death, Purpose for the Certificate, Race, Your Name, Your Relationship to the Person of Record, Your Signature
Marriage Certificate
Bride Name, Bride's Name Before Marriage, Date of Marriage, Daytime Phone Number, Email, Groom Name, Groom Name Before Marriage, Mailing Address, Place where License Was Issued, Purpose for the Certificate, Your Name, Your Relationship to the Person of Record, Your Signature
Divorce Certificate
Not Restricted
Who can request vital records in North Carolina?
Authorized individuals can request certified copies of their own vital records in North Carolina. They are required to provide proof of identity when making the request. If someone is requesting a birth, death, or marriage certificate on behalf of another person, it is important to ensure eligibility by reviewing who is authorized to request the specific type of certificate needed. The eligibility of third parties varies depending on the type of certificate. Relatives of the individual on record or legal representatives may lawfully request a copy of a vital record, but they must provide additional documentation unless they are a parent listed on the certificate.
Confirm the eligibility requirements for each birth, death, and marriage certificate in the table below to ensure you are authorized to request a vital record on behalf of someone else.
| Certificate | Authorized People |
|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | Self, Parent, Child, Sibling, Spouse, Grand Parent, Legal Guardian |
| Death Certificate | Parent, Child, Sibling, Spouse, Grand Parent |
| Marriage Certificate | Self, Parent, Child, Sibling, Spouse, Grand Parent |
| Divorce Certificate | Self, Parent, Child, Sibling, Spouse, Grand Parent |
✔︎ 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.
Do I need a notary with my application?
The NCDHHS-NCOVR does not require applicants to obtain notarized statements when requesting certified copies of their birth or marriage certificates, regardless of whether the request is ordered online, by mail, by telephone, or in person. However, a notarized statement may be necessary when certain third parties request a vital record. Only those with a “direct, tangible interest,” such as family members or legal representatives, may obtain certified death certificates. In some cases, a notarized sworn statement is required. An online notary is included with your order when ordering through Vital Records Online.
❗️ A notarized sworn statement may be required to prove your relationship to the person named on the certificate or your legal need for the certificate.
You can find more information about unique circumstances that may require one on the NCDHHS-NCOVR website at https://vitalrecords.nc.gov/. If you decide to use a local public notary, you must bring your ID to create the document. Notaries are generally required for apostilles, corrections, or amendments to vital records. You can find more information about these conditions in other FAQs below.
✔︎ A notary is generally not required to obtain authorized copies of North Carolina vital records. A photocopy of your ID is sufficient to verify your identity.
✔︎ Vital Records Online includes an online notary service in your application packet (if required). Otherwise, you must bring your ID when creating this document using a local public notary.
The cost of obtaining vital record replacements varies depending on the type of certificate you need. When you order birth, marriage, divorce, or death records through Vital Records Online, the online Application Filing Service starts at $29. The NCDHHS-NCOVR charges a fee of $30.00 for a certified copy of birth, death, and marriage records. If you need additional copies of birth, death, or marriage certificates, there is a $15.00 fee for each extra copy when ordered simultaneously.
| Certificate | First Copy Fee | Additional Copy Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | $30.00 | $15.00 |
| Death Certificate | $30.00 | $15.00 |
| Marriage Certificate | $30.00 | $15.00 |
| Divorce Certificate | Varies by county | Varies by county |
❗️ If no record is found or no copy is made, state law requires that the NCDHHS keeps $24.00 for a search fee. The processing fee for online orders is also non-refundable. If no record is found, a letter of no record found will be sent to you.
✔︎ Additional copies can be requested during the same order to save future costs in case your vital records are lost, destroyed, or stolen.
VitalRecordsOnline.com processing fee is $29.
How long will it take to receive my vital records from North Carolina?
The time it takes to process and deliver North Carolina birth, death, or marriage certificates can vary depending on several factors. The method you choose when submitting your application and documents can impact the total amount of time until you receive your vital record in the mail.
Ordering through Vital Records Online simplifies the process by providing options to expedite your order for quicker processing. However, please note that these times may change depending on the volume of requests received by the NCDHHS-NCOVR. If a notary is required, you can choose to include the notarization online during the checkout process on Vital Records Online or allocate additional time to obtain a notary locally.
| Certificate | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | 13 to 15 months |
| Death Certificate | 13 to 15 months |
| Marriage Certificate | 13 to 15 months |
| Divorce Certificate | Varies by county |
✔︎ All Vital Records Online includes an online notarization service that can be performed virtually during checkout.
❗️ The processing and replacement duration of birth, death, or marriage certificates by the NCDHHS-NCOVR may increase based on a high volume backlog of orders.
❗️ We also advise allowing 2-3 additional days in your application process if you prefer obtaining a notary from a local entity (if required).
❗️ A simple error, typo, or missing document can cause wait times to double, repeat shipping costs, or expose personal information.
After you submit your application through Vital Records Online, you can monitor the order and processing status in the support area.
If you choose to mail your application packet manually, it is recommended to purchase first-class mail tracking to ensure that your application arrives successfully. The NCDHHS-NCOVR ships all vital records via USPS first-class mail to your home for protection, but they do not assume responsibility for any misdirected or lost certificates. In the event of a lost birth certificate, it is crucial to file a report promptly. Please exercise caution and ensure the accuracy of the recipient’s address to prevent the exposure of personal information due to a simple error or typo.
❓ Find more frequently asked questions below the North Carolina counties office locations directory.
An apostille is required when filing a vital record with a foreign government. The NC Department of the Secretary of State issues apostilles for vital records that were initially filed with the NCDHHS-NCOVR.
How can I get an apostille for a vital record?
You can obtain an apostille for North Carolina vital records through the Department of the Secretary of State or Vital Records Online. Vital Records Online offers reliable apostille services across all 50 US states, recognized by governments in over 100 countries. VRO provides professional assistance for apostilles on Birth, Death, Marriage, and Divorce Certificates, and the entire process can be conveniently completed online in just three steps, starting at $149 (plus government fees).
The entire procedure can be completed online, so there is no need to acquire a physical copy of your documents under most circumstances. Once you have completed the necessary apostille documentation, it will be sent to you via FedEx or DHL. The delivery will be made right to your doorstep using reliable courier services, regardless of your location, whether in the US or abroad.
You will need to provide the following information:
You can submit requests for vital record apostilles to the Center for Health Statistics at the following addresses:
For express shipping (UPS, DHL, or Federal Express), submit the request to the physical address:
NC Department of the Secretary of State,
ATTN: Authentications,
2 South Salisbury Street,
Raleigh, NC 27601
For standard mail, use the following address:
NC Department of the Secretary of State,
ATTN: Authentications,
PO Box 29622
You can reach the office at 919-814-5400 or online at https://www.sosnc.gov/divisions/authentications/apostille_certificates.
When a vital record needs to be changed, an amendment is required, and different forms are necessary depending on the specific information that needs to be amended. The NCDHHS provides a straightforward process for individuals to correct or amend their birth certificates, marriage certificates, or the death certificates of family members, as authorized by law. While supplemental changes can be made as addendums to the original vital record, the original document cannot be altered by any entity.
The requirements for requesting changes or amendments vary depending on the type of vital record that needs to be modified. In some cases, obtaining a court order may be necessary, often requiring the assistance of an attorney.
Correcting or amending vital records usually will require the following:
Learn more about correcting or amending birth, death, and marriage certificates.
Where can I search for free public records?
Finding free public records in North Carolina can be a complex task, but there are numerous vital records that are easily accessible to the public. You can explore the state’s archives if you’re searching for birth, marriage, or divorce records in North Carolina. However, it’s important to note that reviewing these records can require significant time and effort.
Are North Carolina Vital Records Open to the Public?
Some third-party websites offer convenient access to research specific types of vital records. These websites are not limited to a particular geographic location and can serve as a valuable reference point when conducting records research. However, the data on third-party sites may vary from official government records. Therefore, it is recommended to cross-reference the information obtained from these sites with official government sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.
When searching public vital records on a third-party website, the requester must provide the following information:
You can check what the official certified copy of your birth, death, or marriage certificate looks like for each North Carolina county and municipality, as they may differ. To confirm that your certificate is a certified copy, you can compare it to the official, certified documents issued in the county where yours was issued. Informational copies of vital records can be recognized by a stamp or large print across the face of the document that reads “Informational, Not a Valid Document to Establish Identity” or something similar.
Authorized Copy:
The authorized copy of a vital record is a legal document that can be used for official identification, while informational copies cannot be used for that purpose. Certified copies of vital records are only issued to individuals who have a “direct and tangible interest” in the document.
Informational Copy:
Informational copies of birth or marriage certificates, also known as short-form, unofficial (uncertified), heirloom, or commemorative certificates, do not require a sworn statement to request copies. These copies are not considered official legal documents and are intended only for display or personal reference purposes. They cannot be used for purposes such as establishing identity, obtaining a passport, or proving eligibility for benefits. Informational copies are commonly used for personal record-keeping or genealogical research.
If you request an uncertified copy of a certificate issued by North Carolina Vital Records, it will be on plain (white) paper and clearly stamped “Uncertified.” It will not have a raised Vital Records seal. They are available to anyone who requests them unless legal restrictions apply. Applicants must provide the required information on the application and pay the appropriate search fees.
In accordance with the North Carolina Public Records Law, citizens have the right to inspect or obtain copies of public records.
Find more references regarding birth, death, and marriage certificates in the resources section.
Visit the official North Carolina government website at https://vitalrecords.nc.gov/
