La Crosse’s unique position as a university town and regional medical hub creates constant demand for vital records. Students at UW-La Crosse and Western Technical College need documentation for enrollment and financial aid, while healthcare professionals at Gundersen and Mayo systems require certificates for licensing and employment verification. The city’s tourism industry, centered on Mississippi River recreation, also generates needs for various identification documents.
Vital Records & Certificates in La Crosse, WisconsinLa Crosse County Register of Deeds
Get birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, and divorce records from the La Crosse County Register of Deeds. We also offer expedited passport services for La Crosse residents with 3-day processing.
❓ Why You Need These Certificates
🛂 Need This Certificate for a Passport?
Most La Crosse residents need their birth or marriage certificate for passport applications. Let us handle both together in one process.
Birth Certificates in La Crosse
La Crosse County residents secure birth certificates through the Register of Deeds office at 212 6th St N, Suite 1400. Births at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center or Mayo Clinic Health System require certified documentation for university enrollment at UW-La Crosse, healthcare system employment, or Mississippi River recreational licensing. Wisconsin’s efficient digital record system enables quick processing for families needing documentation for student financial aid or professional certifications. The downtown office location makes it convenient for residents working in the Pearl Street district or students living near campus.
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 La Crosse
Couples celebrating at picturesque venues like the historic Radisson Hotel ballroom or outdoor ceremonies at Granddad Bluff Park obtain licenses from the La Crosse County Register of Deeds. Popular riverside locations include Pettibone Park pavilions and the elegant La Crosse Country Club overlooking the Mississippi. Wisconsin requires no waiting period, allowing immediate ceremonies after license issuance. Many couples choose autumn weddings to showcase the spectacular bluff colors visible from downtown venues.
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 La Crosse
Death certificates are processed through the La Crosse County Register of Deeds for residents passing at Gundersen, Mayo facilities, or other area locations. Families working with Coulee Region Cremation Society or local funeral homes need certified copies for insurance claims and estate settlements. The office prioritizes timely processing for families dealing with complex financial arrangements common in this university and healthcare community.
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 La Crosse
La Crosse County Circuit Court processes divorce proceedings for local residents. The courthouse at 333 Vine St maintains comprehensive records, with certified copies available for property transfers or custody modifications. Given the city’s transient student population and healthcare professionals, divorce documentation often involves complex asset division requiring multiple certified copies for various legal proceedings.
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 La Crosse
The La Crosse County Register of Deeds operates at 212 6th St N, Suite 1400, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Downtown parking is available in city ramps along 3rd Street and Pearl Street, with two-hour street parking throughout the business district. The office is within walking distance of UW-La Crosse and accepts cash, checks, and major credit cards. Take the elevator to the 14th floor for efficient service in the modern government center.
In Person
⏱️ Same Day
By Mail
⏱️ 2-3 Weeks
Online
⏱️ 1-2 Weeks
🏛️ La Crosse County Register of Deeds
Address
212 6th St N #1400, La Crosse, WI 54601, United States
Phone
Website
Office Hours
Get Directions
From Highway 35, take Exit 3B toward downtown. Head east on State Street to 6th Street North. The government center is at the intersection with Vine Street.
⚖️ Government vs. Expedited Service
Choose the option that best fits your timeline
| Feature | La Crosse 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 La Crosse residents with 3-day expedited service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about certificates in La Crosse, Wisconsin
Where can I park near the Register of Deeds office downtown?
▼Can UW-La Crosse students get expedited service?
▼Are birth certificates available for babies born at Gundersen?
▼What’s the best time to visit the courthouse?
▼Can I walk to the office from UW-La Crosse campus?
▼Do healthcare workers get priority service?
▼Are marriage licenses available during Riverfest weekend?
▼How do I get copies for Mississippi River guide licensing?
▼Can I order certificates by mail to La Crosse?
▼What if I need records for out-of-state college applications?
▼Ready to Get Your Certificate & Passport?
Whether you need just a certificate or a complete passport service, we’re here to help La Crosse residents get what they need quickly and easily.
📋 Just need the county clerk office?
🏛️ Visit La Crosse County Clerk WebsiteHours: Monday-Friday 8AM-8PM EST, Saturday 10AM-6PM EST
Emergency Service: Available 24/7 for urgent passport needs