With the May 7 deadline fast approaching, all Americans are reminded that a Real ID will become a necessity for boarding domestic flights and entering specific federal buildings. The process for obtaining these enhanced forms of identification may seem daunting, but Pennsylvanians, particularly Philadelphians, are assured that securing one of the required documents, a Marriage Record, is quite straightforward.
According to a recent announcement from Philadelphia's Register of Wills, John P. Sabatina, Esq., the office has simplified the acquisition of Marriage Records, aligning with a push to transition residents to Real IDs. An informational video featuring officials from both the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Register’s Marriage Records Unit elucidates how these records are integral to acquiring a Real ID, and they have outlined the relatively easy steps to obtain an official copy, which have been shared at www.phila.gov/wills.
For those seeking to secure their Marriage Record in person, Room 415 at City Hall remains open weekdays, excluding holidays, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with multiple payment options including cash, card, and money order. The requirement for a certified copy of this document is a $95 fee, and applicants can depart with the record in hand—the same-day request form must be completed upon arrival. Alternatively, the mail request option caters to those unable to make the trip, though one should be prepared for a 3-4 week wait. A completed form, downloadable from the official website, accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope and the requisite payment of $40 for a certified copy, will yield the Marriage Record sent directly to your home.
