Birth and Death Certificates

​Where are Birth and Death Certificates Stored?

The Department of Health, Division of Vital Records, 101 S. Mercer St, New Castle, PA 16101 keeps all birth and death records after 1905.
 
Birth and Death records prior to 1906 were filed in the county in which they were born. Those records have been transferred to the Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission. 
 
Obtaining a Birth or Death Certificate After 1905:  ​Apply online by going to https//mycertificates.health.pa.gov. Allow 3 weeks for processing.

To complete the form and request by mail, complete the Birth Certificate or Death Certificate​ ​form and follow the instruction provided.   Please allow 4 weeks for mail orders.​

Contact the Department of Health, Division of Vital Records, 101 S. Mercer St, New Castle, PA 16101 keeps all birth and death records after 1905. Telephone 1-877-PA-HEALTH or 724-656-3100 or go to www.health.pa.gov. 
 
For request by Priority, Express or 1st Class Mail send check or money order payable to Vital Records, enclose a legal size, self-addressed envelope for return of copies and mail to:

PA Dept. of Health
Division of Vital Records
105 Nesbitt Road
New Castle, PA 16105
 
The Department of Health, Division of Vital Records has a walk-in service for birth records in the Commonwealth Health and Welfare Building, 555 Walnut Street, Harrisburg, PA. Office hours are 8 a.m. through 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. For additional information call 717-772-3480.​Other in-person offices include Erie, New Castle, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Scranton.
 
Obtaining a Birth or Death Certificate Prior to 1906: Please send a written request (include contact number) along with your payment and a self addressed stamped envelope.  Please include your telephone number in case we have any questions. The information will be mailed within 5 business days.