Find West Hartford Marriage Records and Vital Documents
West Hartford is a thriving suburban community in Hartford County with excellent vital records services. The Town Clerk's office maintains all marriage records for ceremonies performed within town limits. Residents and researchers can access these records through multiple channels including in-person visits, mail requests, and online ordering through VitalChek. The town's commitment to efficient service makes obtaining marriage certificates straightforward.
West Hartford Marriage Records Quick Facts
West Hartford Town Clerk Office Location and Hours
The West Hartford Town Clerk is located at 50 South Main Street, West Hartford, CT 06107. This office serves as the Registrar of Vital Statistics for the town. All marriage licenses are issued here. Certified copies of marriage certificates are processed at this location. The staff provides professional service to residents and non-residents alike.
You can contact the office by phone at (860) 561-7430. Calling ahead is recommended. Staff can answer questions about required documents. They can confirm current fees. They can also explain the application process.
The office maintains regular business hours Monday through Friday. Check the official town website for current hours. Hours may vary seasonally. Holiday closures follow the town calendar. Arrive with plenty of time before closing.
Online Marriage Certificate Requests in West Hartford
West Hartford offers online ordering through VitalChek. This service provides convenience for busy residents. You can order from home at any time. The process is secure. Most requests process quickly.
To order online, visit vitalchek.com. Select West Hartford as the issuing town. Enter the required information. Include names, dates, and your contact details. Upload a copy of your photo ID.
Online orders include additional processing fees. These fees go to VitalChek. The town receives only the certificate fee. Credit cards are accepted online. You will receive confirmation by email.
Delivery options vary. Standard mail takes several days. Expedited shipping is available for an extra charge. Choose the option that fits your timeline. Track your order through the VitalChek website.
Marriage License Applications at West Hartford Town Clerk
Couples planning to marry in West Hartford must apply for a license. Both parties must appear together. This requirement is set by state law. The application process is simple. Most couples complete it in one visit.
Bring valid government-issued photo ID. Driver's licenses are preferred. Passports are also accepted. Know your social security numbers. You do not need to bring your physical social security card.
The license fee is $50. This is set by the state legislature. Bring payment in the form accepted by the office. Check current payment methods before your visit. Some offices prefer cash or checks.
- Both applicants must appear in person together
- Valid photo identification required
- Social security numbers needed
- No blood test required
- License valid for 65 days from issue
The license becomes valid immediately. You can marry the same day if desired. The 65-day validity period gives flexibility. Plan your ceremony within this timeframe. Late weddings require a new application.
Getting Certified Copies of West Hartford Marriage Certificates
After your wedding, obtain certified copies for your records. These documents prove your marriage. You will need them for many purposes. Name changes require certified copies. Government agencies often request them.
West Hartford charges $20 per certified copy. This matches the state standard. Order multiple copies at once. This saves time later. Most people order three to five copies.
Request copies in person at the Town Clerk office. Bring photo ID and payment. Same-day service is usually available. Mail requests are also accepted. Include a detailed letter with your request.
Note: Allow extra processing time for certificates from recent weddings. The officiant must first file the completed license.
West Hartford Records Available Through State Channels
The Connecticut Department of Public Health keeps copies of West Hartford marriages. Their records go back to July 1, 1897. You can order from the state office. This is an alternative to the town clerk.
The State Vital Records Office is at 410 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106. They accept walk-in requests. Mail orders are processed. Online orders go through VitalChek. State processing takes longer than town requests.
State fees are $20 per copy. Payment must be by postal money order. Personal checks are not accepted. Make money orders payable to "Treasurer, State of Connecticut." Include all required information with your request.
Public Access Policies for West Hartford Marriage Records
Marriage records in West Hartford are public documents. Connecticut law allows access to anyone 18 or older. You do not need to be related to the couple. No special reason is required. This open access supports transparency.
C.G.S. ยง 7-51a establishes this right of access. The statute applies to all towns. West Hartford follows this law. Certified copies are available to the public. Some information may be redacted for privacy.
Social security numbers are removed from public copies. This protects personal information. Only the married couple can get unredacted versions. They must prove identity. This balance protects both access and privacy.
Other Hartford County Towns with Marriage Records
West Hartford is surrounded by other communities with their own vital records offices. If you cannot find a record here, check neighboring towns. Each maintains separate records.