Order official Maine Marriage Records and Vital Records online

Marriage records are essential documents that provide important information about a couple's legal union. These records can be significant for various purposes, including genealogical research, legal matters, and personal record-keeping. Obtaining a marriage certificate can sometimes be a necessary process for validation and legal acknowledgment of a marriage. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to get Maine marriage records.

Who Can Request Marriage Records?

In Maine, marriage records are considered public records, and thus anyone can request them. However, for records less than 50 years old, access may be restricted to the following individuals:

• • The persons named on the record;
• • The immediate family members;
• • Legal representatives providing proof of direct interest.

What Documents Are Required?

When applying for a marriage certificate, it's important to provide necessary identification and fill out the appropriate forms. Typically, you'll need the following documents:

• • Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport);
• • Completed application form for a marriage certificate.

The application forms can often be downloaded directly from the official website of Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services.

How to Obtain Maine Marriage Records

There are several ways to request marriage records in Maine:

By Mail

To request by mail, send the completed application form along with a copy of your photo ID and the required fee to:

Office of Vital Records

220 Capitol Street

11 State House Station

Augusta, ME 04333-0011

In Person

You can also visit the Office of Vital Records in person. Make sure to bring a completed application and a valid photo ID.

Online

Requests for marriage records can be made online through third-party services like VitalChek, which provides a secure and convenient way to obtain records. Visit VitalChek to get started.

Tip: Ensure all information provided is accurate to avoid delays in processing your application.

How Much Do Marriage Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining a marriage certificate in Maine is generally around $15 for the first copy, with additional copies costing $6 each. Optional expedited services and online processing fees may incur additional charges. For the most current fee schedule, refer to the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.

Processing Time

The processing time for marriage records requests in Maine varies depending on the method of application:

• • By Mail: Typically takes 7-10 business days from the receipt of the application;
• • In Person: Can often be processed the same day, depending on the office’s workload;
• • Online: Processing through services like VitalChek often takes 5-7 business days.

If you need any specific information or have further questions, it's advisable to reach out directly to Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services for the most accurate and detailed assistance.

Following these guidelines carefully will help ensure a smooth and efficient process in obtaining your Maine marriage records. If you have any specific questions or need additional assistance, do not hesitate to contact the Maine Department of Health and Human Services directly.

If the event was recorded locally or if you need immediate access to detailed records, it is preferable to contact your county vital records office directly. Find the contact details of your local county vital records office here.