Vital Records & Certificates in Half Moon Bay, CaliforniaSan Mateo County Office of Vital Records

Half Moon Bay residents often require vital records for passport applications when traveling abroad, school enrollment for children attending local schools, employment verification at area businesses, and real estate transactions in our highly desirable coastal property market.

Half Moon Bay families can secure birth certificates through the San Mateo County Office of Vital Records located in San Mateo. Many local births occur at Seton Medical Center Coastside or require transfer to Peninsula hospitals like Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City. The county office maintains meticulous records for all San Mateo County births, including those in our coastal communities. Processing typically requires one to two weeks, though same-day service may be available for emergencies. Coastal residents often need these documents for passport applications when traveling internationally or for school enrollment in the Cabrillo Unified School District.

Couples choosing our spectacular coastline for their weddings—whether at the elegant Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, the rustic charm of Deer Creek Road venues, or intimate ceremonies on Poplar Beach—must obtain marriage licenses from the San Mateo County Clerk in Redwood City. California has no waiting period, allowing immediate ceremonies once the license is issued. The coastal setting attracts couples from across the Bay Area, making advance planning essential during peak wedding seasons when our dramatic bluffs and ocean vistas provide unforgettable backdrops.

Death certificates for Half Moon Bay residents are processed through San Mateo County’s vital records system. These essential documents facilitate estate settlements, life insurance claims, and property transfers within our close-knit coastal community. The county ensures accurate record-keeping for all coastal areas, recognizing the unique needs of families in our geographically distinct location along Highway 1.

Divorce documentation originates from San Mateo County Superior Court where proceedings were conducted. Certified copies enable legal name changes, property division completion, and remarriage preparation. The county court system serves all Peninsula communities, though residents may find it convenient to coordinate courthouse visits with other business in the San Mateo area.

The San Mateo County Office of Vital Records operates at 1600 W Hillsdale Blvd #203 in San Mateo, open weekdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. From Half Moon Bay, take Highway 92 east over the coastal hills—a scenic 30-minute drive through Crystal Springs Reservoir area. Ample parking is available at the Hillsdale location. The office accepts major credit cards, cash, and checks, with expedited service available for urgent requests.

From Half Moon Bay, take Highway 92 east to Highway 101 north, then exit at Hillsdale Boulevard. The vital records office is in the large office complex on the right.