Vital Records & Certificates in Annapolis, MarylandCircuit Court for Anne Arundel County

As Maryland’s capital city and home to the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis residents require vital records for diverse purposes including federal and state government employment, military family documentation, and Coast Guard maritime licensing for the area’s thriving boating industry. The city’s proximity to Washington D.C. creates demand for security clearance documentation, while its role as a sailing destination generates needs for passport applications and international travel documents. Historic families with deep Annapolis roots also frequently request vital records for genealogical research and estate planning in this culturally significant Chesapeake Bay community.

Annapolis residents secure birth certificates through the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court at 8 Church Circle, conveniently located in the heart of the historic downtown district just steps from the State House. Local births commonly occur at Anne Arundel Medical Center, the region’s premier healthcare facility, or at other nearby hospitals serving the greater Annapolis area. Maryland’s standard fee structure applies: $24 for the first certified copy and $6 for each additional copy requested during the same visit. Naval Academy families, state government employees, and federal workers commuting to Washington frequently require multiple certified copies for military orders, security clearances, or dependent identification cards. The courthouse location’s proximity to State Circle and the Naval Academy makes it easily accessible for residents throughout the capital city.

Couples planning ceremonies in Annapolis obtain marriage licenses directly from the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court at 8 Church Circle, housed in the elegant courthouse building near the State House. Popular wedding venues include the Naval Academy Chapel for military ceremonies, the Historic Inn for intimate receptions, waterfront locations along the Severn River, and historic sites like the William Paca House gardens. Maryland requires no waiting period, with licenses costing $55 and remaining valid for six months. The capital city’s romantic harbor setting and colonial charm attract couples from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region seeking memorable waterfront wedding locations.

Death certificates for Annapolis residents are processed through the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court, with fees following Maryland’s standard structure of $24 for the first copy and $6 for additional copies. The capital city’s significant military retiree population and proximity to federal employment centers create frequent needs for death certificates related to survivor benefits, estate settlements, and military burial arrangements. The courthouse’s central location near State Circle ensures convenient access for families managing end-of-life documentation requirements.

Divorce records for Annapolis residents are maintained by the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court Clerk at 8 Church Circle. Court filing fees and certified copy costs vary depending on case complexity and document length. Military families stationed at the Naval Academy and state government employees often require certified divorce decrees for personnel file updates, security clearance renewals, or remarriage documentation when life circumstances change in the capital city.

The Anne Arundel County Circuit Court at 8 Church Circle operates Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, located in the heart of historic Annapolis near the State House dome. Parking can be challenging in the downtown area; consider using the Gotts Court Garage or metered street parking around State Circle. The courthouse accepts cash, checks, money orders, and major credit cards. During Maryland General Assembly sessions (January-April), expect increased activity downtown but courthouse operations continue normally. Allow extra time for parking during tourist season and special events at the Naval Academy.

The courthouse is located at 8 Church Circle in downtown Annapolis, directly adjacent to State Circle and the Maryland State House in the historic district.