Vital Records & Certificates in West Lafayette, IndianaTippecanoe County Clerk Office

West Lafayette’s unique position as a major university town creates diverse needs for vital records among students, faculty, staff, and permanent residents. Common uses include study abroad programs, graduate school applications, employment verification, international visa requirements, and various academic administrative processes throughout the Purdue University community.

West Lafayette residents and Purdue University community members obtain birth certificates through the Tippecanoe County Clerk Office at 301 Main Street in Lafayette. Many local births occur at IU Health Arnett Hospital or St. Elizabeth East. The county maintains comprehensive birth records with staff experienced in handling requests from both permanent residents and the transient university population. Students often need multiple certified copies for study abroad programs, graduate school applications, and employment verification. The office processes most requests within 24-48 hours for in-person visits.

Couples planning weddings in West Lafayette obtain marriage licenses from the Tippecanoe County Clerk Office on Main Street in Lafayette. Popular ceremony locations include the Purdue Memorial Union, Black Sparrow Volstead, and various venues along the scenic Wabash River. Many Purdue graduates choose the beautiful campus settings like the Bell Tower area or Loeb Fountain courtyard for their special day. Indiana’s marriage license requirements include a three-day waiting period, though weekend ceremonies are popular during graduation seasons.

Death certificates for West Lafayette residents are processed through the Tippecanoe County Clerk Office in Lafayette. University families and permanent residents often need these documents for insurance settlements, estate proceedings, and various administrative purposes. The county office maintains detailed records for all deaths occurring within West Lafayette and throughout Tippecanoe County, with staff available to assist families during difficult circumstances.

Divorce decree copies for West Lafayette residents are available through the Tippecanoe County Circuit Court system in Lafayette. University employees, students, and permanent residents may need these documents for remarriage, financial aid applications, or legal proceedings. The court maintains comprehensive records of all local divorce cases with assistance available for locating specific case documentation.

The Tippecanoe County Clerk Office at 301 Main Street in Lafayette serves West Lafayette residents Monday through Friday, typically 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. From Purdue’s campus, cross the Wabash River via the Harrison Bridge or Main Street Bridge to reach downtown Lafayette. Parking is available in municipal lots and metered street spaces near the courthouse. The office accepts cash, checks, money orders, and credit cards. CityBus provides public transportation between West Lafayette and Lafayette for those preferring not to drive.

From West Lafayette, take Main Street or Harrison Street east across the Wabash River into Lafayette. The courthouse is located in downtown Lafayette near the riverfront. Multiple bridges connect the two cities for convenient access.