In Bedford’s close-knit community, vital records serve essential purposes for families establishing roots or handling life transitions. Students entering Bedford County schools need birth certificates for enrollment, while couples planning weddings at local venues require marriage licenses. With Bedford’s growing population and proximity to Lynchburg’s employment opportunities, residents frequently need these documents for passport applications, job verification, and mortgage processes. The town’s family-oriented atmosphere means vital records are regularly needed for youth sports registration, senior services, and estate planning matters.
Vital Records & Certificates in Bedford, VirginiaBedford Circuit Court Clerk
Get birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, and divorce records from the Bedford Circuit Court Clerk. We also offer expedited passport services for Bedford residents with 3-day processing.
❓ Why You Need These Certificates
🛂 Need This Certificate for a Passport?
Most Bedford residents need their birth or marriage certificate for passport applications. Let us handle both together in one process.
Birth Certificates in Bedford
Birth certificates in Bedford are handled through the Bedford Circuit Court Clerk located at 123 E Main St Apt 201, directly in the heart of downtown Bedford. Parents whose children were born at Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital or Virginia Baptist Hospital in nearby Lynchburg can obtain certified copies here. The Bedford County clerk maintains detailed birth records for all county residents. Processing typically takes 2-3 business days for walk-in requests. The office accepts cash, checks, and money orders, with fees varying based on copy requirements. Staff members are knowledgeable about Virginia state regulations and can assist with expedited processing when needed for urgent passport applications or school enrollment deadlines.
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 Bedford
Couples planning ceremonies at the picturesque Elks Lodge or intimate gatherings at local venues near Smith Mountain Lake obtain marriage licenses from the Bedford Circuit Court Clerk on East Main Street. Virginia requires a three-day waiting period after application, though this can be waived by completing premarital counseling. The Bedford courthouse offers a charming setting for civil ceremonies with its historic architecture. Many couples appreciate the personalized service provided by the clerk’s office staff, who understand the importance of this milestone. Weekend appointments may be available for working couples who cannot visit during regular business hours.
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 Bedford
Death certificates are processed through the Bedford Circuit Court Clerk for individuals who passed away in Bedford County. Families working with local funeral homes like Burch-Messier Funeral Home or Updike Funeral Home can coordinate with the clerk’s office for timely processing. The office maintains compassionate service during difficult times, understanding the urgency often associated with these requests. Multiple copies are typically needed for insurance claims, estate settlements, and Social Security notifications. Staff members provide guidance on the number of copies generally required for various legal proceedings.
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 Bedford
Divorce decrees from Bedford County proceedings are available through the Bedford Circuit Court Clerk office on East Main Street. Individuals who finalized divorces in Bedford County can request certified copies for remarriage, name changes, or child custody matters. The clerk’s office maintains confidential records and requires proper identification before releasing documents. Processing times are generally quick for recent divorces, though older records may require additional research time. Staff can assist with locating specific case information when exact details are unavailable.
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 Bedford
Visit the Bedford Circuit Court Clerk at 123 E Main St Apt 201, located in downtown Bedford near the courthouse. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Street parking is readily available along East Main Street and surrounding downtown blocks. The office accepts cash, personal checks, and money orders. Online ordering may be available for certain record types through the Virginia Department of Health website. Walk-in service is welcome, though calling ahead during peak times like graduation season can help ensure prompt service. The friendly staff provides clear instructions for completing required forms.
In Person
⏱️ Same Day
By Mail
⏱️ 2-3 Weeks
Online
⏱️ 1-2 Weeks
🏛️ Bedford Circuit Court Clerk
Address
123 E Main St Apt 201, Bedford, VA 24523, United States
Phone
Website
Office Hours
Get Directions
The Bedford Circuit Court Clerk is located at 123 E Main St Apt 201 in downtown Bedford, easily accessible from US-460 and other major routes serving Bedford County.
⚖️ Government vs. Expedited Service
Choose the option that best fits your timeline
| Feature | Bedford 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 Bedford residents with 3-day expedited service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about certificates in Bedford, Virginia
Where exactly is the Bedford County clerk office located in downtown?
▼Can I get birth certificates without driving to the Bedford courthouse?
▼What are the parking options near the Bedford clerk office?
▼Does the Bedford clerk office require appointments for vital records?
▼How long does it take to get death certificates in Bedford?
▼Can I order multiple copies of birth certificates at once in Bedford?
▼What payment methods does the Bedford County clerk accept?
▼Are marriage licenses available immediately in Bedford County?
▼Can I get copies of old birth certificates from Bedford?
▼What information do I need to request a death certificate in Bedford?
▼Ready to Get Your Certificate & Passport?
Whether you need just a certificate or a complete passport service, we’re here to help Bedford residents get what they need quickly and easily.
📋 Just need the county clerk office?
🏛️ Visit Bedford County Clerk WebsiteHours: Monday-Friday 8AM-8PM EST, Saturday 10AM-6PM EST
Emergency Service: Available 24/7 for urgent passport needs