New Britain Marriage Certificates and Vital Documents
New Britain, a vibrant city in Hartford County, maintains marriage records through its Town and City Clerk office. This office serves as the local Registrar of Vital Statistics. Couples planning to marry must apply here for licenses. Family historians and individuals needing certified copies can also access records dating back many decades. The city provides both in-person and mail services for obtaining these important documents.
New Britain Marriage Records Quick Facts
New Britain Town and City Clerk Office Information
The New Britain Town and City Clerk operates from 27 West Main Street, New Britain, CT 06051. This office handles all vital records for the city. Marriage licenses are issued here. Certified copies of marriage certificates are also available. The staff processes requests for genealogical research as well.
Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. These times apply to both license applications and certificate requests. Arrive early to ensure enough time for processing. The office may stop accepting new requests before the official closing time. This helps staff complete all work by the end of the day.
You can call the office at (860) 826-3344. Phone calls can answer basic questions. Staff can confirm required documents. They can also check if specific records are available. However, record searches must be done in person or by mail.
Applying for a Marriage License in New Britain
Couples must visit the clerk's office together. Both parties need to appear in person. This is a state requirement. You cannot send someone else to apply for you. The application process takes about thirty minutes.
Bring proper identification. A valid driver's license works best. A passport is also acceptable. You will need to know your social security numbers. Proof of age is required to show you are at least 18.
The license fee is $50. New Britain accepts money orders for this payment. Cash may also be accepted. Check with the office before your visit. Credit cards may have additional processing fees.
The license is good for 65 days. Plan your wedding within this window. If you wait too long, you must start over. You will pay the fee again. There are no extensions.
Note: Both parties should bring proof of their current address. This helps ensure accurate record keeping.
Request Certified Copies of New Britain Marriage Records
After the wedding, you may need certified copies. These prove you are married. You need them for name changes. Insurance companies may ask for them. Banks often require them too.
New Britain charges $20 per certified copy. This is the standard rate across Connecticut. Payment must be by money order. Make it payable to the City of New Britain. Cash is also accepted for in-person requests.
To request by mail, send a letter with details. Include the full names of both parties. Provide the date of marriage. Include your contact information. Enclose the money order and a copy of your photo ID.
Processing times vary. In-person requests are often same-day. Mail requests take longer. Allow two to three weeks for mail processing. The office does not offer expedited service.
Genealogy Research Using New Britain Marriage Documents
Family historians find valuable information in New Britain marriage records. These documents show family connections. They provide maiden names. They establish timelines for family trees. The city maintains records dating back to the late 1800s.
Researchers can access these records in person. Visit the Town and City Clerk office. Staff can help locate specific records. You will need to know approximate dates. Names of the married couple help narrow the search.
For older records, try the Connecticut State Library. They have records before 1897. The library is in Hartford. They offer microfilm and digital resources. Genealogical societies can also assist with research strategies.
Legal Requirements for New Britain Marriage Records Access
Connecticut law governs access to marriage records. Under C.G.S. § 7-51a, anyone 18 or older can request certified copies. You do not need to be family. You do not need a special reason. This applies to New Britain records.
Social security numbers are protected. Public copies do not show this information. Only the married couple can get unredacted copies. They must prove their identity. This protects against identity theft.
Marriage laws are set by C.G.S. § 46b-24. These statutes cover who can marry. They set the rules for licenses. They establish recording requirements. New Britain follows all state laws.
- Applicants must be 18 years or older
- Both parties must appear in person
- No blood test is required in Connecticut
- License valid for 65 days only
- Ceremony must occur within state boundaries
Marriage Records in Nearby Hartford County Locations
New Britain is centrally located in Hartford County. Several other towns maintain their own marriage records. If you cannot find a record in New Britain, check these nearby locations.