Online Registry suite completed

BOSTON - Wednesday, September 18, 2019 -  Mayor Martin J. Walsh, the Registry Department, and the Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) today announced marriage certificates are now available online, completing the Registry Department’s online services. Birth and death certificates were previously launched online by DoIT in March 2018 and March 2019. This process of obtaining records is an alternative method to attaining the documents in person at City Hall, and records are now available online at boston.gov/registry.

“Boston City Hall works to serve our residents, and moving this process online makes it easier and more efficient for Boston residents to get the documents they need,” said Mayor Walsh. “Our Department of Innovation and Technology is constantly improving our services for residents, and offering crucial documents online is another step in our process to make service better for all.”

The Registry Department provides vital records to constituents as requested, including birth, marriage and death certificates. These documents can be used to apply for jobs or State services, including a motor vehicle license. Additionally, these resources come in preparation for the October 2020 implementation of the federal requirement of residents to obtain a REAL ID, which requires vital documents to receive.

"As a result of the REAL ID requirement, we’ve seen a 30 percent increase in requests for birth records, highlighting the need to bring these services online for all vital records,” said Patty McMahon, City Registrar. “Empowering our residents to access these digital tools has allowed the City to provide a higher level of customer service to those who need extra support. I’m proud to continue this work.

Birth certificates requested from the City of Boston are available online for $14 plus fees per copy, which includes shipping costs. Previously, the only online alternative was handled through a state and third-party process that would cost the requester an average of $40+ per transaction. Adding the option to request vital records online is another way the Department of Innovation and Technology has improved resources provided by the City of Boston. 

About the Department of Innovation and Technology

The Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) works to engage and empower residents by improving convenience of using City resources with up-to-date technology. The department expands digital engagement and services, data and analytics, and broadband, cable and digital equity. The department oversees the development and implementation of new digital tools, open data, Wicked Free Wi-Fi, mobile apps, and cybersecurity practices. 

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