Richmond’s unique position as a university town creates diverse needs for vital certificates. EKU students require birth certificates for graduate school applications, internships, and post-graduation employment opportunities. Local families need these documents for school enrollment in Madison County schools, passport applications for international travel, and legal proceedings. Marriage certificates establish legal unions for university couples, while death certificates facilitate estate matters for longtime Richmond residents.
Vital Records & Certificates in Richmond, KentuckyMadison County Clerk’s Office
Get birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, and divorce records from the Madison County Clerk’s Office. We also offer expedited passport services for Richmond residents with 3-day processing.
❓ Why You Need These Certificates
🛂 Need This Certificate for a Passport?
Most Richmond residents need their birth or marriage certificate for passport applications. Let us handle both together in one process.
Birth Certificates in Richmond
Richmond parents seeking birth certificates work directly with the Madison County Clerk’s Office at 321 North Madison Avenue, conveniently located near downtown’s historic district. Whether your child was born at Baptist Health Richmond, Pattie A. Clay Hospital, or the University Medical Center, obtaining certified copies is straightforward with proper documentation. The clerk’s staff understands the unique needs of university families, including those requiring expedited processing for out-of-state moves or international student documentation. EKU students frequently need birth certificates for graduate school applications, internships, or post-graduation employment. The office’s central location makes it easily accessible from campus housing, Lancaster Avenue apartments, and residential neighborhoods throughout Richmond’s expanding boundaries.
Requirements
Valid government ID, payment, proof of relationship to person named on certificate
Who Can Request
The person named on the certificate, their parent/legal guardian, spouse, child, grandparent, sibling, or authorized legal representative with proper documentation.
Processing Time
Common Uses
- ✓ Passport applications
- ✓ Driver’s license/State ID
- ✓ Social Security card
Marriage Licenses in Richmond
Couples planning weddings at the elegant Keen Johnson Ballroom, intimate ceremonies at White Hall mansion, or outdoor celebrations at Lake Reba obtain marriage licenses from Madison County Clerk’s Office. Richmond’s status as a college town creates unique opportunities, from EKU chapel weddings to receptions at Gibson Bay Golf Course. Kentucky requires no waiting period, making it convenient for couples from Eastern Kentucky University or those relocating to the Richmond-Berea area. The clerk’s office, just blocks from EKU’s campus, serves engaged couples throughout the academic year with efficient, friendly service that reflects true Kentucky hospitality.
Requirements
Both parties present with valid ID, certified copies of divorce decrees if previously married
Popular Wedding Venues
Waiting Period
For Passport Name Change
Need to update your passport with your new married name? We can help expedite the process.
Update Passport with New Name →Death Certificates in Richmond
Richmond families dealing with loss find compassionate assistance at the Madison County Clerk’s Office for death certificate processing. Whether loved ones passed at Baptist Health Richmond, Pattie A. Clay Hospital, or in hospice care, the clerk’s experienced staff handles these sensitive documents with care and efficiency. University families often need multiple copies for out-of-state insurance companies or federal benefits. Local funeral homes like Oldham, Roberts & Powell and Turpin Funeral Home frequently coordinate initial paperwork, streamlining the process during difficult times for Richmond area families.
Requirements
Valid ID, proof of relationship or legal authority
Who Can Request
Spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, legal representative of the estate, funeral director, or anyone with a documented legal or personal interest.
Processing Time
Special Instructions
Divorce Decrees in Richmond
Madison County Circuit Court handles divorce proceedings for Richmond residents, with final decrees available through the court clerk’s office. The courthouse’s proximity to EKU makes it accessible for university staff and faculty navigating family law matters. Richmond’s legal community includes attorneys experienced in Kentucky family law, often helping clients understand requirements before court appearances. Final divorce documents become essential for name changes, remarriage, or modifications to custody arrangements involving children in Richmond’s excellent school system.
Requirements
Valid ID, case number helpful
Processing Time
Special Notes
📄 Reverting to maiden name?
You’ll need your divorce decree to update your passport with your previous name.
Name Change Process →How to Order in Richmond
The Madison County Clerk’s Office at 321 North Madison Avenue operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with convenient parking available on surrounding streets. Located just north of downtown Richmond and within walking distance of EKU’s campus, the office serves university students, faculty, and local families with equal efficiency. Payment options include cash, checks, and major credit cards. During EKU’s busy periods like graduation weekend or fall semester startup, call ahead to confirm processing times. The friendly staff provides guidance on Kentucky vital records laws and can answer questions about expedited services for time-sensitive situations.
In Person
⏱️ Same Day
By Mail
⏱️ 2-3 Weeks
Online
⏱️ 1-2 Weeks
🏛️ Madison County Clerk’s Office
Address
321 N Madison Ave, Richmond, KY 40475, United States
Phone
Website
Office Hours
Get Directions
The Madison County Clerk’s Office is located at 321 N Madison Ave in downtown Richmond. From EKU campus, head north on Lancaster Avenue, turn right on Main Street, then left on Madison Avenue. Free parking is available on nearby streets.
⚖️ Government vs. Expedited Service
Choose the option that best fits your timeline
| Feature | Madison County Clerk (Government Service) | PassportsAndVisas.com (Expedited Service) |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Time | Same day (in-person) 2-3 weeks (mail/online) | 3 days guaranteed |
| Certificate + Passport | ✗ Separate processes | ✓ One-stop service |
| Personal Account Manager | ✗ Not available | ✓ Dedicated support |
| Error Checking | ✗ Your responsibility | ✓ Expert review |
| Tracking | ✗ No tracking | ✓ Real-time updates |
Need to Renew Your Passport?
Got your marriage certificate for name change? Complete your passport renewal in minutes online. We serve Richmond residents with 3-day expedited service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about certificates in Richmond, Kentucky
Is the Madison County Clerk’s office within walking distance of EKU campus?
▼Do I need an appointment at the Madison County Clerk’s office in Richmond?
▼What’s the fastest way to get a birth certificate in Richmond for college applications?
▼Can EKU students get certificates for events that occurred outside Kentucky?
▼Where can I park when visiting the clerk’s office in downtown Richmond?
▼Are there extended hours during EKU graduation for certificate services?
▼Can I order certificates online if I’m a Richmond resident attending EKU?
▼What identification do EKU students need for certificate requests?
▼How long does mail processing take for Richmond area residents?
▼Are there notary services available near EKU campus for document preparation?
▼Ready to Get Your Certificate & Passport?
Whether you need just a certificate or a complete passport service, we’re here to help Richmond residents get what they need quickly and easily.
📋 Just need the county clerk office?
🏛️ Visit Madison County Clerk WebsiteHours: Monday-Friday 8AM-8PM EST, Saturday 10AM-6PM EST
Emergency Service: Available 24/7 for urgent passport needs