Vital Records & Certificates in East Providence, Rhode IslandRhode Island Department of Health – Center for Vital Records

East Providence residents need certified vital records for numerous life events and legal requirements. Whether enrolling children in the East Providence School District, applying for passports for travel, securing social security benefits, or handling estate matters, these official documents serve as crucial proof of identity and family relationships throughout your life in Rhode Island.

Birth certificates for East Providence residents are handled by the Rhode Island Department of Health – Center for Vital Records, located at Simpson Hall, 6 Harrington Road in Cranston. Babies born at nearby Women & Infants Hospital or Rhode Island Hospital require certified copies for various purposes throughout their lives. The state office maintains records for all births occurring in Rhode Island since 1853. Walk-in service is available during business hours, though appointments are recommended for complex requests. Processing typically takes 10-15 business days for mail orders, while in-person requests can often be fulfilled the same day if all requirements are met.

Couples planning weddings at venues like the Squantum Club or outdoor ceremonies at Haines Memorial State Park obtain marriage licenses through the Rhode Island Department of Health. The state requires a 72-hour waiting period between license application and ceremony, though this can be waived by a judge for urgent circumstances. Both parties must appear in person to apply, presenting valid identification and any required divorce decrees. Rhode Island marriage licenses are valid for three months from the date of issue and must be returned within ten days of the ceremony.

Death certificates for East Providence residents are issued by the Rhode Island Department of Health’s Vital Records office. Family members dealing with estate matters, insurance claims, or property transfers need certified copies. The office maintains death records from 1853 forward and can provide both short-form and long-form certificates depending on intended use. Multiple copies are often needed for different institutions, so ordering several at once can save time and additional processing fees.

Divorce records for East Providence residents are maintained by the Family Court where the decree was granted. These documents are essential for remarriage, name changes, or financial matters. The Rhode Island Family Court system handles all divorce proceedings, with records available through the court clerk’s office. Certified copies typically require proper identification and may have restrictions on who can obtain them based on privacy laws.

The Rhode Island Department of Health’s Vital Records office at Simpson Hall, 6 Harrington Road, Cranston, serves East Providence residents Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Free parking is available in the adjacent lot. The office accepts cash, checks, and money orders, with credit card payments available online. Allow extra time during peak periods like tax season or summer months when passport applications increase. Online ordering is available through the state’s VitalChek system for faster processing.

From East Providence, take Route 95 South to Exit 17 (Route 37 West). Follow Route 37 to Harrington Road and turn right. Simpson Hall will be on your left.