Instructions for getting official certificates or decrees for life events such as birth, death, marriage, or divorce. Get a marriage license Requirements, fees, and instructions for obtaining a marriage license from the City of Philadelphia. Get archival birth, death, and marriage records You can get copies of archival birth, death, and marriage records from the Department of Records City Archives. Get a birth certificate Description of how to order a copy of a birth certificate (with a raised seal) online, by mail, or in person. Get a death certificate Information on how to order a copy of a death certificate (with a raised seal) online, by mail, or in person. Get a copy of a divorce decree Instructions for obtaining copies of divorce decrees in Philadelphia. Become a foster parent If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, we have the information and resources to help you get started. Adopt a child Some children in foster care need adoptive homes. Explore the process of adopting from foster care. Coordinate a Plan of Safe Care (POSC) How to coordinate and develop a Plan of Safe Care (POSC). Request Medical Examiner records How to request records or an autopsy report from the Medical Examiner’s Office. Request DNA/paternity test information from the Medical Examiner How to request a DNA/paternity test on a person whose body was handled by the Medical Examiner’s Office (MEO). Register a life partnership Same-sex and same-gender couples can have their relationships officially recognized by the City of Philadelphia by becoming life partners. Terminate a life partnership Individuals who want to terminate an official life partnership must submit a termination statement to the City. Get married in LOVE Park How to get married or renew your vows in front of Philadelphia’s landmark LOVE sculpture as part of Wedding Wednesdays.
