Order official Virginia Marriage Records and Vital Records online

Marriage records are significant documents that provide proof of a legal union between two individuals. They are essential for various legal, personal, and genealogical reasons, including changing one's name, resolving legal matters, obtaining spousal benefits, and tracing family history. In Virginia, these records are maintained by the Department of Health's Division of Vital Records. This guide will help you navigate the process of obtaining Virginia marriage records by detailing who can request them, required documents, and the application process.

Who Can Request Marriage Records?

In Virginia, marriage records are considered confidential and are not public records. As such, access is restricted to certain individuals, including:

• • The individuals named on the marriage certificate;
• • Immediate family members (such as parents, children, or siblings);
• • Legal representatives with proper documentation;
• • Authorized government officials conducting official business.

What Documents Are Required?

To request a marriage certificate, you must provide specific documentation:

• • A completed application form (available on the official website of the Virginia Department of Health);
• • A government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport);
• • Any supporting documents if you are a legal representative or government official.

You can find more details about the required documents and download the necessary forms from the Virginia Department of Health's official website.

How to Obtain Virginia Marriage Records

There are several ways to obtain Virginia marriage records:

By Mail

To request a marriage certificate by mail, send the completed application form along with the required documents and payment to the Division of Vital Records' mailing address. Ensure all items are correctly filled out and include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return of your documents.

In Person

You can visit the Division of Vital Records' office and submit your application in person. Be sure to bring all required documents and payment. This method can often expedite the processing time as it eliminates mailing delays.

Online

For a convenient and fast option, you can order marriage records online through the VitalChek service. You'll need to complete the online form and upload scanned copies of your identification documents. Additional fees apply for this service.

How Much Do Marriage Records Cost?

The cost of obtaining Virginia marriage records varies depending on the method:

• • Standard processing fee: $12 per copy;
• • Expedited service (online orders via VitalChek): additional fees apply for faster processing and shipping;
• • Extra copies: $12 each.

Processing Time

Processing times can differ based on the application method you choose:

• • By mail: Typically processed within 5-10 business days after receipt, plus mailing time;
• • In person: Same day processing if all documents are in order;
• • Online (VitalChek): Processing times range from 2-5 business days, with expedited shipping options available.

If specific information is unavailable, please reach out to the Virginia Department of Health's Division of Vital Records directly for the most accurate and up-to-date processing times.

In conclusion, following these guidelines will help ensure you obtain your Virginia marriage records efficiently. It's important to gather all necessary documents and complete the application form accurately. If you have any specific questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to contact the Virginia Department of Health directly. They are available to help guide you through the process and address any concerns.

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.