Couples planning to marry in Vermont may complete the Application for Vermont License of Civil Marriage form online and bring it to the town clerk in their town of residence. If neither applicant is a resident of Vermont, then the application may be presented to any town clerk within Vermont. The clerk issues a license that the couple takes to an officiant. The officiant signs, dates, and returns the license to the town clerk. Then the town clerk records and files the certificate and sends a certified copy to the Health Department.
Civil unions were established in Vermont in 2000 to provide same-sex couples all the benefits, protections and responsibilities under law as are granted to spouses in a marriage. The marriage equality act, effective September 1, 2009 allows same-sex couples to marry in Vermont. This discontinued the need for the separate status of "civil unions." Civil unions entered into prior to September 1, 2009 will continue to be recognized as civil unions.
order a certified copy of a marriage or civil union certificate
All civil union certificates, regardless of the year in which the event took place, must be ordered through the Vermont State Archives and Records Administration.
Marriage certificates from:
- 2013 and before are available from the Vermont State Archives and Records Administration.
- 2014 to present are available for a fee from the Vermont Department of Health.
Order by Mail
- Complete and print the Application for Certified Copy of Vermont Marriage or Divorce or Civil Union Dissolution Certificate.
- Make check or money order payable to "Vermont Department of Health".
- The fee for certified copies is $10.00 per copy.
- Return the request form with your check or money order to the address on the form. Do not mail cash.
Order in Person
Vital Records Process Change Due to Coronavirus (COVID-19)
In-person transactions at the customer service window (108 Cherry Street, Burlington) have been suspended until further notice.
- Complete and print the Application for Certified Copy of Vermont Marriage or Divorce or Civil Union Dissolution Certificate.
- Make check or money order payable to "Vermont Department of Health".
- The fee for certified copies is $10.00 per copy.
- Bring the application form, your check or money order, and your identification to 108 Cherry Street in Burlington, Vermont between 7:45 am and 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
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- Getting Married in Vermont - Questions and answers to help you plan your Vermont wedding
- Marriage Checklist for Officiants