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. Records have been transferred to the Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission. 
 
Obtaining a Birth or Death Certificate After 1905: 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. 
 
To complete the form and request by mail, complete the Birth Certificate or Death Certificate form and follow the instruction provided.   
 
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
P.O. Box 1528
New Castle, PA 16103-1528
 
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.
 
Obtaining a Birth or Death Certificate Prior to 1906: Please send a written request along with your payment and include your telephone number in case we have any questions. The information will be mailed within 5 business days.