Vital records in New Jersey are handled at the municipal level. Birth, death, and marriage records are maintained by local city or town clerks. The state office (Municipal Registrar (local) / NJ DOH (state)) keeps duplicate copies.
What this page covers: New Jersey vital record ordering, eligibility requirements, and related databases. What it does not cover: Genealogy records older than the state vital records system (check the Genealogy Resources page for historical records).
Where to start: For certified copies of birth or death certificates, contact Municipal Registrar (local) / NJ DOH (state). For marriage licenses, contact the Municipal Registrar in the county where the ceremony will occur. For divorce records, contact the court that granted the decree.
Common mistake: Birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees come from different offices. Do not assume one office handles all vital records.
