North Carolina (NC) Vital Records

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.

History of Vital Records in North Carolina

North Carolina Government-Issued Vital Records

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

Official Birth Certificate
North Carolina Birth Certificate

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

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

Why Do I Need Certified Copies of My North Carolina Vital Records?

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.

Where to Get North Carolina Vital Records

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

  • Required In-Person Application
  • Long Waiting Lines
  • Complex & Tedious Application Process
  • Strict Business Hours & Closed During Holidays
  • Extremely Busy Phone Lines
  • No Trackable Application
  • Only Accept Checks & Money Orders

Visiting the NCDHHS-NCOVR office location

Ordering Vital Records Online

  • No Waiting in Long Lines
  • Simplified & Streamlined Application Process
  • Open 24 Hours/Day — 365 Days/Year
  • Online Assistance By Specialists
  • Verification And Error-Checking
  • Custom Trackable Application Interface
  • Convenient Credit Card Fee Payments
    • Additional Service Fee
    • Remote Processing Time

Get Started Online

How to Order North Carolina Vital Records

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 Online

Ordering North Carolina vital records online is quick and effortless and involves two simple steps:

  1. Complete the online application, upload your documents, and
  2. process your order.

(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.

Ordering In-Person or By Mail

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:

  • gathering your documents,
  • getting photocopies of your documents,
  • completing the correct form,
  • making an appointment, if necessary (required at the state office, may vary by county office)
  • presenting everything to the health department during an appointment or regular business hours.

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

  • purchasing an envelope,
  • including a physical check or money order,
  • obtaining a notarized sworn statement if required (only required as additional documentation for certain third-party applicants.), and,
  • issuing it to the North Carolina NCDHHS-NCOVR.

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.

Requirements

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.

Certificate Required Information ID Requirements Options Secondary IDs
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
Corrections ID,
Passport,
State Driver's License,
State ID,
State Non-Driver ID,
Student ID (with transcript),
US Military ID,
Valid Government ID
Bank Statement,
Letter from Government Agency,
State Concealed Weapon Permit,
Temporary Driver's License,
Utility Bill,
Vehicle Registration,
W-2 Form
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
Corrections ID,
Passport,
State Driver's License,
State ID,
State Non-Driver ID,
Student ID (with transcript),
US Military ID,
Valid Government ID
Bank Statement,
Letter from Government Agency,
Pay Stub,
State Concealed Weapon Permit,
Temporary Driver's License,
Utility Bill,
Vehicle Registration,
W-2 Form
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
Corrections ID,
Passport,
State Driver's License,
State ID,
State Non-Driver ID,
Student ID (with transcript),
US Military ID,
Valid Government ID
Bank Statement,
Letter from Government Agency,
Pay Stub,
State Concealed Weapon Permit,
Temporary Driver's License,
Utility Bill,
Vehicle Registration,
W-2 Form

The state of North Carolina requires all vital record applications to have a wet signature (signed by hand). After your online application is complete, you will receive a package to your home address containing the completed application with required documents, and a check or money order with addressed to the appropriate health department for the state fee.

Who is Authorized to Order

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 Children, Grandchildren, Grandparents, Law Enforcement, Legal Guardian, Legal Representative, Other Person of Interest, Parents, Person on Record, Power of Attorney, Siblings, Social Worker, Spouse, Step Children, Step-Parents
Death Certificate Children, Grandchildren, Grandparents, Legal Guardian, Legal Representative, Other Person of Interest, Parents, Siblings, Spouse, Step Children, Step-Parents
Marriage Certificate Children, Grandparents, Legal Guardian, Legal Representative, Parents, Person on Record, Power of Attorney, Siblings, Social Worker, Spouse, Step Children, Step-Parents

✔︎ 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.

Notarized Sworn Statement

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.

Costs and Fees

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 Assistant starts at $29. The NCDHHS-NCOVR charges a base fee of $24.00 for a certified copy of birth, death, and marriage records. In-person requests have an additional fee of $15.00, mail-in requests cost $6.00, and online or phone orders cost $13.95. 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 Fee Additional Copy
Birth Certificate $30.00 $15.00
Death Certificate $30.00 $15.00
Marriage Certificate $30.00 $15.00
Divorce Certificate $0.00 $0.00

❗️ 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.

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 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 Rush Processing Time
Birth Certificate 1 to 3 months N/A
Death Certificate 1 to 3 months N/A
Marriage Certificate 1 to 3 months N/A
Divorce Certificate 1 to 3 months N/A

✔︎ 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.

How to Track My NC Vital Record?

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.

North Carolina (NC) 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) North Carolina vital records issuing agencies in your county.
Address Hours Application
(NCDHHS-NCOVR)

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services,
Office of Vital Record

Cooper Memorial Health Building,
225 N. McDowell St.,
Raleigh, NC 27603-1382

Phone: 919-733-3000

Mailing Address:

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services,
Office of Vital Record

Attn: VC Certificate Orders,
1903 Mail Service Center,
Raleigh, NC 27699-1900

8:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m. (appointments only) Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Buncombe County Register of Deeds
60 Court Plaza
Asheville, NC 28801
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Cabarrus County Register of Deeds
PO Box 707
Concord, NC 28026
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Cumberland County Vital Records
117 Dick Street P.O. Box 2039
Fayetteville, NC 28302
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Durham County Register of Deeds
200 E. Main Street P.O. Box 1107
Durham, NC 27702
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Forsyth County Register of Deeds
201 North Chestnut Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Guilford County (Greensboro Office)
BB&T Building
201 West Market Street
Greensboro, NC 27401
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Guilford County (High Point Office)
325 East Russell Avenue Room 155
High Point, NC 27260
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Johnston County Register of Deeds
207 E Johnston St #209
Smithfield, NC 27577
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Mecklenburg County Vital Records Office
618 N College St
Charlotte, NC 28202
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
New Hanover County Register of Deeds
320 Chestnut St #102
Wilmington, NC 28401
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Pitt County Vital Records
100 W 3rd St
Greenville, NC 27858
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Union County Register of Deeds
500 N Main St # 239
Monroe, NC 28112
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Wake County Vital Records Department
300 S Salisbury St
Raleigh, NC 27601
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Alamance County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Alexander County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Alleghany County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Anson County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Ashe County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Avery County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Beaufort County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Bertie County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Bladen County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Brunswick County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Burke County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Caldwell County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Camden County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Carteret County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Caswell County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Catawba County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Chatham County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Cherokee County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Chowan County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Clay County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Cleveland County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Columbus County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Craven County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Currituck County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Dare County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Davidson County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Davie County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Duplin County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Edgecombe County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Franklin County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Gaston County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Gates County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Graham County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Granville County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Greene County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Halifax County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Harnett County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Haywood County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Henderson County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Hertford County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Hoke County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Hyde County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Iredell County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Jackson County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Jones County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Lee County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Lenoir County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Lincoln County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Macon County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Madison County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Martin County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
McDowell County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Mitchell County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Montgomery County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Moore County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Nash County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Northampton County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Onslow County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Orange County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Pamlico County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Pasquotank County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Pender County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Perquimans County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Person County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Polk County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Randolph County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Richmond County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Robeson County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Rockingham County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Rowan County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Rutherford County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Sampson County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Scotland County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Stanly County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Stokes County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Surry County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Swain County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Transylvania County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Tyrrell County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Vance County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Warren County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Washington County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Watauga County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Wayne County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Wilkes County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Wilson County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Yadkin County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate
Yancey County
Birth Certificate Death Certificate Marriage Certificate

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Apostille

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).

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

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: 

  • NC Authentication Office Cover Letter
  • Certified vital record certificate
  • Payment in the form of a money order or check – $10.00 per document, and payment made to the “NC Secretary of State. “
  • A return pre-paid envelope or carrier label — Any documents received without a pre-paid return envelope will be delivered by regular mail to a United States address.

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.

Correcting or Amending Vital Records

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: 

  1. A completed, notarized amendment application;
  2. Supporting documentation;
  3. Appropriate fee(s);

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 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:

  • 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 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.

What Are the Differences between Authorized Copies Versus Informational Copies?

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.

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