Clerk of Orphans' Courts Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Receive A Copy Of A Birth/Death Certificate That Occurred Prior To 1905?

All birth and death certificates that occurred in Pennsylania after 1906 are recorded in New Castle, Pennsylvania. You may pick up a form in the Clerk of Orphans' Court Office or you may call Vital Statistics at 1-724-656-3100 or www.health.state.pa.us/vitalrecords .

If the birth or death occurred in any other state, you may go to www.vitalchek.com.

How Do I Receive A Copy Of My Birth/Death Certificate (After 1906)?

If the birth or death occurred in any other state, you may go to www.vitalchek.com.

How Do I Request A Certified Copy Of A Marriage Record Prior To 1905?

The Clerk of orphans' Court Office has marriage records for the periods 1852 to 1855 and 1885 to present. You may request a certified copy of a marriage record by sending a written request along with a check or money order payable to the Clerks of Orphans' Court Office. Please include the bride's maiden name, groom's name, and date of marriage. You must also include a self addressed, stamped envelope with your request.

Payment may be made online by going to Make a Payment - Select Orphans Court then Birth or Death Certificate.

How Do I Request A Certified Copy Of My Marriage Certificate?

You may request a certified copy of your marriage license by sending a written request along with a check or money order payable to the Clerk of Orphans' Court Office. Please include the bride's maiden name and groom's name, date of marriage and license number (ML#)(if known). You must also include a self addressed, stamped envelope with your request.

Request and payment may be made online by going to Make a Payment - Select Orphans Court then Certified Marriage License.

How Long Does It Take To Obtain A Certification For A Birth/Death Certificate?

You can expect to have your certification from Vital Statistics within 4-6 weeks. If you need the certification sooner, you may contact Representative Dan Moul at 717-334-3010.
You may also apply in person however you must arrive before 2:00p.m.

Division of Vital Records
Health & Welfare Building
625 Forster Street
Room 129
Harrisburg, PA 17120-0012
717-772-3481