Obtaining Birth, Marriage Certificates and Apostilles in Pennsylvania

If you need authorized copies of birth or marriage certificates in Pennsylvania or require a state apostille, this guide has you covered. We’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to obtain these important documents.

Obtaining Authorized Copies of Birth Certificates

There are three ways to get an authorized copy of a birth certificate in Pennsylvania:

Order Online

You can conveniently order a birth certificate online through the Pennsylvania Department of Health website. Simply select the certificate type and follow the provided instructions.

Order by Mail

To order by mail:

1. Complete the birth certificate application form
2. Mail the form to:

   Division of Vital Records
   P.O. Box 1528 
   New Castle, PA 16103

Visit a Vital Records Office

You can visit any of the six Vital Records Public Offices located throughout Pennsylvania to request a birth certificate in person.

Getting Authorized Copies of Marriage Certificates

Here are three methods to obtain an authorized copy of a marriage certificate in Pennsylvania:

Order Online

Visit the website of the county court where the marriage license was issued and request a copy online.

Order by Mail

Send a mail request to the Marriage License Clerk for the county where the marriage license was obtained.

Visit the County Courthouse

Go in person to the Marriage License Clerk at your local county courthouse to request a copy.

How to Get a State Apostille in Pennsylvania

Follow these steps to obtain a state apostille for your documents in Pennsylvania:

1. Gather Required Documents

Make sure you have certified copies of the documents you need an apostille for.

2. Send Documents for Apostille

Mail your documents to:

Pennsylvania Department of State
Bureau of Commissions, Elections and Legislation  
Room 210 North Office Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120

Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for them to return your apostilled documents.

3. In-Person Apostille Requests

You can also visit in person at:

Pennsylvania Department of State
Bureau of Commissions, Elections and Legislation
Room 201 North Office Building 
401 North Street
Harrisburg, PA 17120

Helpful Links & Resources

• Order birth certificates online in Pennsylvania
• For marriage certificates, check the website of the specific county court where the license was issued
• PA Department of State apostille information

Getting authorized copies of vital records and state apostilles in Pennsylvania is a straightforward process when you know the steps involved. Whether you request online, by mail, or in person, this guide provides the key information you need to successfully obtain these crucial documents. 🗝️📜