In Frederick’s federal employment hub, vital records are essential for security clearances at Fort Detrick, passport applications for international government travel, family relocations due to military assignments, enrollment in local schools including private institutions, and various legal proceedings. The city’s proximity to Washington D.C. creates frequent demand for expedited federal employment verification.
Vital Records & Certificates in Frederick, MarylandFrederick County Health Department
Get birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, and divorce records from the Frederick County Health Department. We also offer expedited passport services for Frederick residents with 3-day processing.
❓ Why You Need These Certificates
🛂 Need This Certificate for a Passport?
Most Frederick residents need their birth or marriage certificate for passport applications. Let us handle both together in one process.
Birth Certificates in Frederick
Frederick residents obtain birth certificates through the Frederick County Health Department located at 350 Montevue Lane, easily accessible from downtown via West Patrick Street. The majority of local births occur at Frederick Memorial Hospital or the birthing center at Frederick Health, with records efficiently processed through the county health department’s vital records division. Military families stationed at Fort Detrick frequently require these documents for dependent enrollment and security clearance processes. The health department serves the entire Frederick metropolitan area, processing requests for births throughout Frederick County. Their experienced staff understands the urgent needs of federal employees and military personnel, offering expedited services when security clearances or deployment schedules demand quick turnaround times.
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 Frederick
Couples planning weddings in Frederick’s historic venues like the Weinberg Center for the Arts, outdoor ceremonies at Gambrill State Park, or elegant receptions at the Historic Inns of Annapolis obtain their marriage licenses from the Frederick County Health Department. The city’s proximity to Washington D.C. makes it popular for destination weddings, with couples appreciating the blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Maryland requires a 48-hour waiting period between application and license issuance, though this can be waived by a judge for urgent circumstances. The scenic Monocacy River and Carroll Creek provide beautiful backdrops for ceremonies throughout Frederick’s parks and historic districts.
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 Frederick
Death certificates for Frederick residents are issued through the Frederick County Health Department, coordinating with local funeral establishments like Stauffer Funeral Home and Keeney & Basford Funeral Home. Records for deaths at Frederick Memorial Hospital, Fort Detrick medical facilities, and other area healthcare institutions are processed efficiently. The substantial federal employee population often requires multiple certified copies for survivor benefits through various government agencies. Processing typically occurs within 3-5 business days, with expedited service available for urgent military or federal benefit claims.
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 Frederick
Divorce records for Frederick residents are maintained by the Frederick County Circuit Court on North Court Street, housed in the historic courthouse near Winchester Hall. The court system handles family law matters for the entire metropolitan area, including military divorces involving Fort Detrick personnel. Local family law attorneys work closely with the clerk’s office to obtain certified copies needed for remarriage, property settlements, and federal benefit modifications. The clerk’s office provides comprehensive assistance for these sensitive legal documents.
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 Frederick
The Frederick County Health Department operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM at 350 Montevue Lane, accessible via West Patrick Street from downtown Frederick. The facility offers ample parking with spaces designated for handicapped access near the main entrance. Public transportation via Frederick Transit Route 10 provides convenient access for those without vehicles. The department accepts cash, checks, and major credit cards including government purchase cards used by Fort Detrick personnel. Online ordering is available through the Maryland vital records system, with secure processing and delivery throughout the Washington-Baltimore metropolitan area. Walk-in service is available, though appointments are recommended during peak periods.
In Person
⏱️ Same Day
By Mail
⏱️ 2-3 Weeks
Online
⏱️ 1-2 Weeks
🏛️ Frederick County Health Department
Address
350 Montevue Ln, Frederick, MD 21702, United States
Phone
Website
Office Hours
Get Directions
From downtown Frederick, take West Patrick Street west to Montevue Lane and turn right. The Health Department is located in the government complex on the left side of Montevue Lane.
⚖️ Government vs. Expedited Service
Choose the option that best fits your timeline
| Feature | Frederick 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 Frederick residents with 3-day expedited service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about certificates in Frederick, Maryland
How do I get to the Frederick County Health Department from Fort Detrick?
▼Is there public transportation to the vital records office in Frederick?
▼Can Fort Detrick personnel get expedited service for security clearances?
▼What are the operating hours for vital records in Frederick?
▼Do I need an appointment to get vital records in Frederick County?
▼How much does a birth certificate cost in Frederick County?
▼Can I pay with a government purchase card at the Health Department?
▼What if my child was born at Frederick Memorial Hospital?
▼Is online ordering available for Frederick County residents?
▼Where do I get marriage licenses for Frederick County weddings?
▼Ready to Get Your Certificate & Passport?
Whether you need just a certificate or a complete passport service, we’re here to help Frederick residents get what they need quickly and easily.
📋 Just need the county clerk office?
🏛️ Visit Frederick County Clerk WebsiteHours: Monday-Friday 8AM-8PM EST, Saturday 10AM-6PM EST
Emergency Service: Available 24/7 for urgent passport needs