Vermont Public Records

Vermont is one of the smallest and least populated states in the U.S. In 2011, the estimated population of the state was just over 626,000. Despite its small size, Vermont is rich in history, as the 14^th state to join the Union in 1791. The area was first inhabited by French explorers in the 16^th century, and by Dutch-British settlers nearly a century later. The state was first part of the New Hampshire Grants before establishing its independence in 1777. Finding pieces of this state’s history often involves perusing Vermont public records that offer vital facts about the people who have called this state home. 

Launching a Vermont public records search begins with knowing where vital records are stored. Vermont offers two primary resources for public records, depending on the types of public records sought and the date in which the event in question took place. It is also important to learn how to go about finding and requesting documents of official Vermont public records, whether you need them for academic, genealogical or personal reasons. When you are ready to initiate a Vermont vital records search, keep these tips in mind:

Who Can Retrieve Vermont Public Records?

Currently, Vermont does not have any restrictions on who may search for and obtain public records in the state. Vermont vital records can be found at both of these agencies using online applications, which ask for little more from the applicant than a name and contact information for sending information. The application does not ask for the person’s relationship to the subject of the search, as some other states do. In fact, current applications do not even request identification information from the person making the request.

The Vermont State Archives and Records Administration welcomes members of the general public to conduct public records searches in Vermont. Access to records beyond Vermont vital records do require permission from an agency record officer or liaison, however. Vital records include birth and death certificates, marriage and divorce records and civil union records. Even certified records of these documents may be requested without a requirement to show relationship to the subject or purpose for requesting the document.

Locations for a Vermont Public Records Search

Recent Vermont public records (within the past five years) are currently held at the Vermont Vital Records office through the Vermont Department of Health. This agency handles requests of birth, death, marriage and divorce records that have taken place over the past five years. The agency primarily handles these requests by mail, with the application for records available for download from the Vital Records website. An email address is also available for requests and questions about online Vermont public records searches.

After five years, VT public records are moved to the Vermont State Archives and Records Administration. This office also holds many of the files of interest to genealogists, including census records, military records and naturalization records. Some of the files in this collection date all the way back to the 18^th century, and can be found through the online Nye database for easier research. The office can also be visited in person, where professional staff members can assist interested individuals with their Vermont public records searches. Requests can even be made by mail or email, with forms available for download from the Archives and Records Administration office.

Online Public Records in Vermont

At this time, there are relatively few options in finding Vermont public records online. The state offices that hold these records do most of their business in person or by traditional mail. However, forms for requests can be downloaded from the appropriate agency website, which can then be sent to the agency by mail or email. The online Nye database also allows for a limited amount of online research through the Vermont State Archives and Records Administration. This service permits interested researchers to conduct genealogical or academic studies from the comfort and privacy of home whenever possible.