✓ Official Hancock County Information

Vital Records & Certificates in Ellsworth, MaineHancock County Registry of Deeds

Get birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, and divorce records from the Hancock County Registry of Deeds. We also offer expedited passport services for Ellsworth residents with 3-day processing.

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📚 Understanding Vital Records

❓ Why You Need These Certificates

As Hancock County’s seat and gateway to Acadia National Park, Ellsworth residents and visitors need certificates for school enrollment, employment at local hospitals and tourism businesses, passport applications for international travel, and estate planning as many retirees choose Maine’s scenic coast for their golden years. The city’s historic character and natural beauty attract new residents requiring documentation for their transitions.

🛂 Need This Certificate for a Passport?

Most Ellsworth residents need their birth or marriage certificate for passport applications. Let us handle both together in one process.

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👶 Birth Records

Birth Certificates in Ellsworth

As Hancock County’s seat, Ellsworth provides convenient access to birth certificates through the Hancock County Registry of Deeds at the courthouse on 50 State Street. Local births often occur at Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital in Ellsworth or Eastern Maine Medical Center in nearby Bangor for specialized care. The registry maintains comprehensive records with fees typically $15-25 for certified copies. Ellsworth’s role as a regional center means residents throughout Hancock County often travel here for vital records, while local families need certificates for children attending Ellsworth schools, summer camp registrations, and passport applications for family vacations exploring Maine’s coastal islands and international destinations accessible via Bangor International Airport.

Requirements

Valid government ID, payment, proof of relationship to person named on certificate

💵 Fee: Varies by county, typically $15-25 for first copy

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 Records

Marriage Licenses in Ellsworth

Couples drawn to Ellsworth’s historic charm and natural beauty, from intimate ceremonies at the Woodlawn Museum to outdoor celebrations near Branch Lake or riverside venues along the Union River, obtain marriage licenses directly at the Hancock County Court House on State Street. Maine’s efficient system allows same-location processing, making it convenient for couples planning weddings at local venues or those choosing Ellsworth as a romantic gateway before honeymooning in nearby Acadia National Park or coastal destinations.

Requirements

Both parties present with valid ID, certified copies of divorce decrees if previously married

💵 Fee: Varies by county, typically $50-100

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Waiting Period

For Passport Name Change

Need to update your passport with your new married name? We can help expedite the process.

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🕊️ Death Records

Death Certificates in Ellsworth

Death certificates for Hancock County residents are processed at the Registry of Deeds within Ellsworth’s courthouse complex. These essential documents serve families throughout the region, supporting arrangements with local funeral homes and estate settlements. As the county seat, Ellsworth efficiently handles these sensitive matters for both city residents and those from surrounding communities.

Requirements

Valid ID, proof of relationship or legal authority

💵 Fee: Typically $15-25 per copy

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 Records

Divorce Decrees in Ellsworth

Divorce records for Hancock County cases are maintained at the courthouse in Ellsworth, providing centralized access for residents throughout the region. These court documents are crucial for remarriage, legal name changes, and estate planning matters. The courthouse staff provides professional assistance to individuals needing certified copies of divorce decrees.

Requirements

Valid ID, case number helpful

💵 Fee: Varies by court, typically $50-100

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 →
📋 Ordering Process

How to Order in Ellsworth

The Hancock County Registry of Deeds operates within the courthouse at 50 State Street in downtown Ellsworth, easily accessible from Route 1 and local streets. Visitors can park along State Street or in nearby municipal lots. The office maintains regular weekday hours, typically 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Friday. Staff accepts cash, checks, and credit cards for certificate fees. As a smaller city serving a rural region, personal service and local knowledge help residents and visitors navigate the process efficiently, with staff often able to provide historical context for older records.

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In Person

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By Mail

⏱️ 2-3 Weeks

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Online

⏱️ 1-2 Weeks

🏛️ Hancock County Registry of Deeds

📍

Address

Hancock County Court House, 50 State St # 9, Ellsworth, ME 04605, United States

Office Hours

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
🗺️ Getting There

Get Directions

The courthouse is located on State Street (Route 230) in downtown Ellsworth, easily accessible from Route 1. Look for the historic brick courthouse building with ample street parking available.

⚖️ Government vs. Expedited Service

Choose the option that best fits your timeline

FeatureHancock County Clerk
(Government Service)
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(Expedited Service)
Processing TimeSame day (in-person)
2-3 weeks (mail/online)
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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about certificates in Ellsworth, Maine

Do I need to travel to Ellsworth from other parts of Hancock County for certificates?

Yes, as the county seat, Ellsworth houses the primary Hancock County Registry of Deeds at 50 State Street. Residents from Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, Blue Hill, and other county communities typically need to visit Ellsworth for vital records, though some limited services may be available locally.

Is parking available near the Hancock County courthouse in Ellsworth?

Yes, downtown Ellsworth offers convenient street parking along State Street near the courthouse, plus municipal parking lots within easy walking distance. Parking is generally free or very affordable, making visits convenient for residents throughout rural Hancock County.

What are the operating hours for vital records in Ellsworth?

The Hancock County Registry of Deeds typically operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, though hours may vary seasonally or during holidays. It’s advisable to call ahead, especially during winter months when Maine government offices sometimes adjust schedules.

Can I order certificates by mail to avoid traveling to Ellsworth?

Yes, Hancock County accepts mail-in requests for many certificate types. This is particularly helpful for residents in outlying areas like Mount Desert Island or remote communities who may find travel to Ellsworth challenging, especially during winter weather conditions.

Are there any special considerations for older records in Ellsworth?

Maine has excellent record-keeping traditions, and Ellsworth’s courthouse maintains extensive historical archives. Staff can often assist with older records or provide guidance on genealogical research, making it valuable for families tracing ancestry in Hancock County’s rich history.

What if I need certificates for someone born in a different Maine county?

Hancock County only maintains records for events within the county. For births, deaths, or marriages in other Maine counties, you’ll need to contact those specific county offices or the Maine State Archives for statewide searches.

How does winter weather affect access to certificates in Ellsworth?

Maine winters can impact travel, but Ellsworth maintains good snow removal on major routes including State Street. The courthouse remains open during normal weather, though severe storms occasionally require closures. Check local conditions before traveling from distant parts of Hancock County.

Are there any services specifically for seasonal residents?

While no special programs exist for seasonal residents, courthouse staff understand the unique needs of summer visitors and those with seasonal homes in the Bar Harbor/Acadia area. They can often expedite requests for visitors with limited time in the area.

What payment methods are accepted at the Ellsworth courthouse?

The Registry of Deeds accepts cash, personal checks made out to Hancock County, and major credit cards. Having exact change can be helpful, though card payments are increasingly common even in smaller Maine government offices like Ellsworth’s courthouse.

Can I get multiple types of certificates in one visit to Ellsworth?

Yes, the courthouse handles birth, death, marriage, and divorce records in the same location, making it efficient for families needing multiple certificate types. This centralized service is particularly valuable for rural residents making the trip to the county seat.

Ready to Get Your Certificate & Passport?

Whether you need just a certificate or a complete passport service, we’re here to help Ellsworth residents get what they need quickly and easily.

📋 Just need the county clerk office?

🏛️ Visit Hancock County Clerk Website

Hours: Monday-Friday 8AM-8PM EST, Saturday 10AM-6PM EST
Emergency Service: Available 24/7 for urgent passport needs

Need Your Certificate Faster? Expedited passport service available for Ellsworth residents