Vital Records & Certificates in Alpena, MichiganAlpena County Clerk

Alpena residents frequently need certified vital records for numerous activities in this northern Michigan community. From registering boats for Thunder Bay adventures to enrolling children in local schools, from applying for hunting and fishing licenses to preparing for international travel through nearby Canadian border crossings, certified documents prove essential for daily life in this lakeside community where outdoor recreation and tourism drive much of the local economy.

Alpena County residents obtain birth certificates from the Alpena County Clerk located at 720 W Chisholm Street. Babies born at Alpena Regional Medical Center or the former Alpena General Hospital have their birth information filed directly with the county office. The clerk maintains comprehensive birth records for all residents of Alpena County, including births in surrounding townships. Parents frequently need these certificates for enrolling children in Alpena Public Schools, obtaining Social Security cards, and participating in youth sports leagues throughout northern Michigan. Same-day processing is often available for urgent requests, particularly during the busy summer months when families prepare for travel.

Couples planning ceremonies at popular venues like Island Park, the Thunder Bay Theatre, or along Lake Huron’s scenic shoreline obtain marriage licenses from the Alpena County Clerk’s office on West Chisholm Street. Michigan’s three-day waiting period applies to all licenses, though this can be waived by the judge for specific circumstances. The county office processes applications throughout the week, and many couples appreciate the convenient downtown location near Alpena’s historic district and waterfront attractions.

The Alpena County Clerk issues death certificates for all deaths occurring within county boundaries, including those at Alpena Regional Medical Center and local care facilities. Family members need these documents for settling estates, accessing veteran benefits, and transferring property ownership. Multiple certified copies are typically required for insurance claims and financial institutions throughout northern Michigan.

Divorce records for Alpena County are maintained by the Circuit Court Clerk at the Alpena County Building. These certified documents are required for name changes, remarriage, and various legal procedures. The court staff can locate records using case numbers or party names, with most requests processed within one business day during regular court hours.

The Alpena County Clerk’s office is conveniently located at 720 W Chisholm Street, just blocks from downtown Alpena’s shopping and dining district. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with extended hours during peak summer tourism season. Street parking is available along Chisholm Street, and additional parking can be found in nearby municipal lots. The office accepts cash, checks, and money orders for all certificate requests. Having specific dates and full names ready will help expedite your request and ensure accurate record retrieval.

From downtown Alpena, head west on Chisholm Street. The Alpena County building is located at 720 W Chisholm Street, easily accessible from US-23 and all major city streets.