Vital Records Frequently Asked Questions

Listed below are questions related to Vital Records . If you do not find your question answered below, please contact us.

Where are you located and what are your hours?

What is the process for obtaining a marriage license?

How do I obtain a copy of a vital record?

What vital records may I obtain from this office?

What's the difference between ordering online and coming in to the office to get a vital record?

Can I conduct a request online if I don't know the actual date of birth, marriage and/or death?

Where are you located and what are your hours?

Vital Records is located on the ground floor of the Oakland County Courthouse. (get address) Business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. excluding legal holidays. Please note our busiest hours are between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

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What is the process for obtaining a marriage license?

To apply for a marriage license, at least one person must appear with both parties':

• driver's licenses
• birth certificates or valid passports (must include both parents' full names and place of birth)
• social security numbers
• $20.00 in cash or credit card 

The State of Michigan has a three-day waiting period, and the license is valid for 33 days from the date of application. For more application information, visit the Apply for a Marriage License page.

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How do I obtain a copy of a vital record?

Vital records such as birth, death and marriage certificates may be requested in person or by mail. The fee is $15.00 for the first copy, and $5.00 for each additional copy of the same record (and a $5.00 enhancement fee when ordering online). You may also order birth, marriage or death certificates online.

For a copy of a birth record, you must have valid picture ID and be the person, parents or legal representative. Be sure to read all the requirements when requesting these documents as they are very specific.

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What vital records may I obtain from this office?

You may obtain certified copies of birth, death and marriage certificates. You may also register an assumed name or co-partnership, apply for notary certification, register for a concealed pistol license and passports. Visit the Forms & Applications section for more information.

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What's the difference between ordering online and coming in to the office to get a vital record?

If you order online, you are charged an additional $5.00 enhancement fee (in addition to the cost of the record). You will receive your vital record(s) in the mail, rather than immediately. The benefit to ordering online is that you may do it from your computer any time of the day, any day of the week. It's ideal if you'd like to save yourself the trip to our office and do not need the record immediately.

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Can I conduct a request online if I don't know the actual date of birth, marriage and/or death?

No. The database requires you have the actual date in order to fulfill your request. If you are uncertain of the date, please contact Vital Records for assistance.

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