Vital Records & Certificates in Ruidoso, New MexicoLincoln County Clerk’s Office

Birth certificates for Ruidoso residents are obtained through the Lincoln County Clerk’s Office in Carrizozo, the county seat located about 45 minutes northeast of Ruidoso. Children born at Lincoln County Medical Center or Presbyterian Hospital in Ruidoso are registered through this same office. Given Ruidoso’s remote mountain location, many residents also utilize the New Mexico Bureau of Vital Records in Albuquerque for mail orders or online requests through VitalChek. The county office charges $10 for the first certified copy and $5 for each additional copy ordered at the same time. Due to the distance from Carrizozo and the seasonal nature of Ruidoso’s population, many families find mail ordering more convenient than making the mountain drive to the county seat.

Mountain couples choosing Ruidoso for their weddings obtain marriage licenses through the Lincoln County Clerk in Carrizozo. Popular wedding venues include the elegant Inn of the Mountain Gods overlooking Mescalero Lake, rustic ceremonies at Casa Blanca on Ruidoso River, and outdoor celebrations at the Spencer Theater grounds. New Mexico has no waiting period, so couples can marry immediately after obtaining their license, which remains valid for 90 days. The mountain setting attracts destination weddings year-round, from summer ceremonies under towering ponderosa pines to winter weddings with snow-capped mountain backdrops.

Death certificates for Lincoln County residents are processed through the county clerk in Carrizozo. Whether the death occurred at Lincoln County Medical Center, at home in the mountains, or at one of the area care facilities, certified copies are available for $10 each. The mountain location and seasonal population often require expedited processing for out-of-state family members. Funeral homes serving the Ruidoso area typically assist families with obtaining the necessary copies for insurance and estate matters.

Divorce records for Lincoln County cases are maintained by the District Court Clerk in Carrizozo. The remote location of many Ruidoso residents means these records are often requested by mail. Court fees vary depending on the specific case and year of divorce. Having the case number significantly speeds up the search process. Many seasonal residents need these records for property transfers or remarriage in their home states.

The Lincoln County Clerk’s Office is located at 300 Central Avenue in Carrizozo, about 45 miles from Ruidoso via US Highway 380 east. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes through scenic high desert terrain. Limited parking is available on Central Avenue and nearby streets. Many Ruidoso residents prefer to order by mail or phone due to the distance. The office accepts cash, checks, and money orders. Given the mountain location, weather conditions can affect travel, especially during winter months when snow may impact Highway 380.

From Ruidoso, take US Highway 70 east to US Highway 380 east. Continue on 380 approximately 30 miles to Carrizozo. The clerk’s office is on Central Avenue in the courthouse.