Wilkes-Barre residents often need vital records for university enrollment at local schools, employment at major regional employers like Geisinger Health System, passport applications for international travel, and various legal proceedings throughout Luzerne County’s court system.
Vital Records & Certificates in Wilkes-Barre, PennsylvaniaLuzerne County Register-Wills
Get birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, and divorce records from the Luzerne County Register-Wills. We also offer expedited passport services for Wilkes-Barre residents with 3-day processing.
❓ Why You Need These Certificates
🛂 Need This Certificate for a Passport?
Most Wilkes-Barre residents need their birth or marriage certificate for passport applications. Let us handle both together in one process.
Birth Certificates in Wilkes-Barre
Birth certificates in Luzerne County are obtained through the Register of Wills office at 200 N River St in downtown Wilkes-Barre. Many local families require these documents for children born at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center or Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. The office processes requests efficiently, maintaining detailed records dating back decades. Pennsylvania birth certificates include security features and state seals required for federal applications. Same-day service is often available for walk-in customers, while mail requests typically process within one week. Certified copies meet all state and federal requirements for passport applications, school enrollment, and employment verification throughout the Wyoming Valley region.
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 Wilkes-Barre
Couples planning ceremonies at the beautiful F.M. Kirby Center, Westmoreland Club, or historic venues throughout Luzerne County obtain marriage licenses from the Register of Wills office on River Street. Pennsylvania requires a three-day waiting period between license issuance and ceremony, with exceptions available for out-of-state residents. The office provides comprehensive information about Pennsylvania marriage laws and assists couples in completing applications properly.
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 Wilkes-Barre
Death certificates for Luzerne County are processed through the Register of Wills office in downtown Wilkes-Barre. These essential documents facilitate estate settlements, insurance claims, and property transfers throughout the region. The office maintains comprehensive records and provides certified copies with proper authentication.
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 Wilkes-Barre
Divorce records from Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas are available through the courthouse on River Street. These certified documents support various legal proceedings and personal documentation needs. Court personnel assist with record searches and provide guidance on obtaining proper certification.
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 Wilkes-Barre
The Luzerne County Register of Wills office is located at 200 N River St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711, operating Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Metered street parking is available on River Street and nearby downtown streets. The office accepts cash, checks, and money orders for payment. Limited free parking may be found in the courthouse area, though downtown parking meters are the most convenient option for quick visits.
In Person
⏱️ Same Day
By Mail
⏱️ 2-3 Weeks
Online
⏱️ 1-2 Weeks
🏛️ Luzerne County Register-Wills
Address
200 N River St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711, United States
Phone
Website
Office Hours
Get Directions
The courthouse is located on River Street in downtown Wilkes-Barre, easily accessible from Public Square via South Main Street or from Interstate 81 via the downtown exits.
⚖️ Government vs. Expedited Service
Choose the option that best fits your timeline
| Feature | Luzerne 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 Wilkes-Barre residents with 3-day expedited service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about certificates in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Where exactly is the Luzerne County Register of Wills office located?
▼What are the office hours for vital records in Wilkes-Barre?
▼Can I get same-day service for birth certificates in Luzerne County?
▼How much does parking cost near the Wilkes-Barre courthouse?
▼Do I need to bring specific documents to get a marriage license in Luzerne County?
▼Ready to Get Your Certificate & Passport?
Whether you need just a certificate or a complete passport service, we’re here to help Wilkes-Barre residents get what they need quickly and easily.
📋 Just need the county clerk office?
🏛️ Visit Luzerne County Clerk WebsiteHours: Monday-Friday 8AM-8PM EST, Saturday 10AM-6PM EST
Emergency Service: Available 24/7 for urgent passport needs