Free vital records copies, Diplomas for WWII and Korean War Veterans

Free Copy of Vital Records

For purposes of a claim before the Federal Government, one copy of marriage licenses, and birth or death certificates, may be acquired free of charge from the appropriate source. Call the local office of the clerk of the Circuit Court (marriage and divorce) or the Bureau of Vital Statistics, 800.832.3277 or 410.764.3038.

A veteran or the veteran’s surviving spouse can obtain one copy of marriage licenses, or birth and death certificates, from the clerk of the Circuit Court and marriage licenses and divorce certificates from the Maryland Department of Health – Vital Statistics Division.

There is no fee for:

• A copy of a certificate of a current or former Armed Forces member that is requested by the member
• A copy of a certificate of a current or former Armed Forces member or of a surviving spouse or child of the member, if the copy will be used in connection with a claim for a dependent or beneficiary of the member.

Proof of service in the Armed Forces must be provided.

Apply in Person or by Mail.  Applications can be found here.

NOTE: Fees are not waived on certificates ordered online through the VitalCheck network.

High School Diplomas for WWII and Korean War Veterans

County Boards of Education award high school diplomas to World War II Korean War veterans who withdrew from high school early to enter the Armed Forces. Diplomas are also issued to any veteran upon successful completion of the General Educational Development (GED) test.

For more information contact your local Board of Education.