Vital Records Directory

What Are Vital Records?

Vital records are official government documents recording major life events: births, deaths, marriages, and divorces. In the United States, vital records are maintained at the state level by health departments and vital statistics offices. Access to recent records is restricted (typically 25–75 years depending on record type and state law), while older records are generally available for genealogical research.

How to Obtain Vital Records

1. Determine the state where the event occurred.
2. Contact the state vital records office — use the state links below.
3. Provide the full name, date, county, and your relationship to the subject.
4. Pay the required fee — most states charge $10–$30 per certified copy.
5. Historical records (typically 75–100+ years old) are usually available at state archives or genealogy platforms.