Alaska Vital Records

Alaska Public Records /Alaska Vital Records

Are Vital Records Public in Alaska?

Yes, vital records are public in Alaska. According to the Alaska Public Records Act, all vital records, including birth, death, marriage, and divorce records, are considered public and can be accessed by any member of the public. This ensures transparency and allows individuals to access important information about themselves or their family members.

The Alaska Public Records Act, enacted in 1962, states that all government records are presumed to be public unless specifically exempted by law. This includes vital records, which are maintained by the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics. As a result, anyone can request and obtain copies of vital records in Alaska, as long as they follow the proper procedures and pay the required fees.

It is important to note that while vital records are public in Alaska, there are certain restrictions on who can access certain types of records. For example, birth records that are less than 100 years old can only be accessed by the individual named on the record, their parents, legal guardians, or authorized representatives. Similarly, marriage and divorce records that are less than 50 years old can only be accessed by the individuals named on the record or their authorized representatives.

What Is Included in Vital Records in Alaska?

Vital records in Alaska include a range of important documents that record significant life events. These records typically include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees. Each of these documents provides valuable information about individuals and their families.

Birth certificates are official documents that provide information about a person's birth, including their full name, date and place of birth, parents' names, and sometimes additional details such as the attending physician. Death certificates, on the other hand, provide information about a person's death, including the date, place, and cause of death.

Marriage licenses are documents that legally authorize a couple to marry. They typically include information about both individuals, such as their full names, ages, occupations, and sometimes their parents' names. Divorce decrees, on the other hand, are legal documents that officially dissolve a marriage and outline the terms of the divorce settlement, including child custody, spousal support, and division of assets.

How to Get Vital Records in Alaska in 2024

To get vital records in Alaska, there are several options available:

In-person: You can visit the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics in Anchorage or one of the regional offices located throughout the state to request and obtain vital records in person. Please note that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is advisable to check the office hours and any specific guidelines before visiting.
By mail: You can also request vital records by mail. Simply download the appropriate application form from the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics website, complete it with the required information, and mail it along with the applicable fees to the address provided on the form.
Online: Some vital records may be available for online ordering through the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics website. You can check their website for more information on the availability of online ordering and the specific records that can be requested online.
Through third-party services: There are also third-party services available that can help you obtain vital records in Alaska. These services typically charge a fee for their assistance and may offer expedited processing options.

It is important to note that fees may apply for obtaining vital records in Alaska, and the specific fees vary depending on the type of record requested and the method of obtaining it. Additionally, certain restrictions may apply to accessing and obtaining certain types of records, especially if they are less than a certain number of years old.

Lookup Vital Records in Alaska

Other Public Records Categories in Alaska

Arrest Records Birth Records Court Records Criminal Records Death Records Divorce Records Driving Records Inmate Records Land Records Marriage Records Police Records Property Records Sex Offender Records Tax Records Warrant Records