Obtaining Birth, Marriage Certificates and Apostilles in Maryland

Are you in need of authorized copies of your birth certificate or marriage certificate in Maryland? Perhaps you also require a state apostille for these documents? Look no further! This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining these essential documents and securing a state apostille in Maryland.

How to Obtain Authorized Copies of Birth Certificates and Marriage Certificates

Birth & Marriage Certificates

In-Person

Certificates can be ordered in person by appointment at the Division of Vital Records’ lobby or some local health departments.

For more information on the nearest location, visit a Local Health Department.

By Mail

To obtain a birth certificate by mail, complete the application and send it with payment, a self-addressed envelope, and a photocopy of your ID to::

• Division of Vital Records: P.O. Box 68760, Baltimore, MD 21215-0036

Online

Maryland Vital Records (MD) | Order Certificates with VitalChek

Forms

1. Birth Certificate Form
2. Marriage Certificate Form

Forms

Obtaining a State Apostille from Maryland

Maryland Secretary of State

In-Person

• Visit the Maryland Office of the Secretary of State:
• Address: 16 Francis St, Annapolis, MD 21401
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 1 pm
• Submit the original notarized or certified document, along with your contact information and the foreign country where the apostille will be used
• The state fee is $5 per authentication

By Mail

• Send your notarized or certified document to the Maryland Secretary of State
• Include a U.S. check or U.S. money order made out to the Secretary of State
• Be sure to include:
• Your return address
• A completed Submittal Form (available on the Maryland Secretary of State website)
• The $5 increase in fees will take effect on July 15th, 2023

Additional Services

Maryland Apostille Services

• Provides fast and convenient apostille services nationwide
• Address: Bowie, MD 20720
• Phone: (301) 793-6200
• They process documents with the government on your behalf and ship completed apostille certificates back to you

Simplifying the Process

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully obtain authorized copies of your birth certificate and marriage certificate in Maryland. Additionally, you now have the knowledge to secure a state apostille for these documents, ensuring their validity for international use.

For further assistance, feel free to contact the Maryland Secretary of State’s office.