Where to Get Vital Records in Washington

Many historical Vital Records in Washington can be found at the State Digital Archives. The records at the Archives are numerous but are not comprehensive. Other sources of vital records can be found at county court houses and at the State Department of Health.


Washington vital records are an essential source of information, whether it is for investigative, genealogical or legal research. The State Digital Archives is a precious resource for historical vital records. It is an online initiative of the state where thousands of records have been digitized and made searchable with a database online. Aside from vital records, the State Digital Archives also houses military, institution and census records.

WA Vital Records – About Searchable Documents

The records at the State Digital Archives, while numerous, are not thoroughly comprehensive. Some vital records may be available at the county court houses while others are available at the State Department of Health.

Numerous death records are available to researchers at the State Digital Archives. Most of the data come in the form of indexes and cemetery listings. Birth and death records exist for Walla Walla, Pierce and Spokane. Marriage records that are available predominantly come from Chelan, Spokane and Snohomish.

Obtaining Certified Copies

To get certified copies, you need to request them from the Department of Health. Individuals can order them online, through phone or fax. Copies are a bit more expensive compared to other states. They cost thirteen dollars per copy.

For birth records, the personnel do not conduct searches. Hence, the request should contain accurate information about the record. Birth records that are dated before 1907 should be requested at the county health department.

For death records, a request includes a search for a period of ten years. Still, as much information about the death record WA should be given to ensure the location of the record. Records that are not available should be requested from the regional branch of the State Archives.

Marriage and divorce records are available starting 1968. Requests for such records also include a ten year search. Marriage and divorce records that originated prior to that date should also be requested from the regional branch of the State Archives.

For the ultimate in convenience, try obtaining the information you need with online record searches. They usually have the index information of most vital records. They provide just enough information for most types of research undertakings.

Useful Washington Vital Records Resource

Department of Health
Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 9709
Olympia, WA 98507-9709
---

Don't want to take the long route when it comes to searching for that Washington vital record you want? For time-efficient, hassle-free records searching, give online vital records search service providers a try!
 

Back To Directory | Link To Reviews