Registry Division

The Registry Division is the keeper of Boston birth, marriage, and death vital records from 1630 to present. If you want a copy of one of these vital records, you must request a certified copy in person or by mail. Certified copies of births, marriages, and deaths are on secure paper, have the raised red seal, and appropriate signatures. The Registry also grants couples Massachusetts Marriage Licenses after couples file their Marriage Intentions.

Open Wednesdays as of 1/7/2015

We are now open every Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Births
The Registry has birth records for any person born at a Boston hospital or residence, or any person whose parents listed Boston as their residence at the time of birth (with some exceptions).
Birth Certificate Information »

Marriages
The Registry has records for couples whose Marriage License was issued in Boston or were married prior to 1983 and listed Boston as their residence. Couples who want to marry must file marriage intention with the Registrar, receive a Marriage License for their ceremony, and then will receive a Certificate of Marriage.
More Marriage Information »

Deaths
The Registry has death records for individuals who passed in Boston and for those whose record listed their residence as Boston.
Death Certificate Information »

Depositions and Corrections
If you want to add the father’s name to a birth certificate, change/add a first name, or correct information on a Boston birth, marriage, or death certificate, please contact the Registry Depositions and Corrections Office at 617-635-4182. Appropriate evidence is required and not all changes can be made by the Registry.

Genealogy
Researching your family tree or other history can be fulfilling and often necessary when trying to obtain a copy of a certificate. Listed are some resources to aid in your research.
Genealogy Resources »

Records Outside Boston

If you are looking for a birth, marriage, or death record that took place outside of Boston, you can contact that city or town directly.

For any Massachusetts birth, marriage, or death records from 1921 to the present you can contact the Massachusetts Office of Vital Records and Statistics. The Massachusetts Archives holds Massachusetts vital records covering the years 1841-1920.
State Archives
State Vital Records

To register records and issue certified copies the Registry is required to follow Massachusetts State Laws.

Monday	9AM - 4PM
Tuesday	9AM - 4PM
Wednesday	9AM - 4PM
Thursday	9AM - 4PM
Friday	9AM - 4PM

cityofboston.gov - Official Web Site of the City of Boston