Dear Schenectady County Resident:

The Office of County Clerk serves almost every citizen of Schenectady County, and although the office doesn't often make headlines, it touches and affects your life in many ways. County Clerks wear many different hats; Clerk of the Supreme and County Courts; Register of Deeds; County Commissioner of Motor Vehicles; County Filing Officer; Chief Notary and elected County Officer. We provide services that involve the Federal, State and Local government.

The Office of County Clerk is one that is steeped in history and tradition and yet, an office prepared to face the future challenges of government. Established by the New York State Constitution, its heritage dates back to medieval England. The Clerk was appointed by the King to travel with the circuit judge. The Clerk was responsible for maintaining court files, documenting land transactions, and representing the crown at local occasions. Over 850 years has passed and the clerk is still responsible for land and court records along with a wide array of duties ranging from recording deeds to swearing in new American citizens.

My goal is to provide responsive service to the people of Schenectady County. If you have any suggestions or comments, or if I may be a personal assistance, please do not hesitate to call me at (518) 388-4220. County Clerk office hours are Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm. Motor Vehicles is open Monday - Friday 8am - 3:45pm. County Clerk Office, July and August hours are 9am - 3:45pm.

Note: Pistol Permit, US Passport and Return the Favor Veteran's Program Office Hours: 9:15-4:15. Closed for lunch 11:45-1:15. MUST HAVE AN APPOINTMENT FOR ALL TRANSACTIONS. Please call 388-4225. 

My e-mail address is john.woodward@schenectadycounty.com. Our mailing address is 620 State Street, Schenectady, NY 12305.

I'd also like to remind many of our DMV customers that you can process some transactions 24/7 at www.dmv.ny.gov--and skip the trip to the DMV!

Thank you for visiting our webpage.

                             --JOHN J. WOODWARD, Schenectady County Clerk

Deputy County Clerks:
Maryellen Brehm, Cynthia Reedy and Cara Jasenski

How do I get a copy of my Birth Certificate
The Schenectady County Clerk’s Office does not handle Birth Certificates. Birth certificates can be obtained at the City/Town/Village Clerk in the location where the birth took place. For example, if you were born at Ellis Hospital or St. Clare's, the CITY Clerk would have your birth certificate, if you were born at Belleview Hospital, the NISKAYUNA Town Clerk would have it. For births in New York State, but outside of New York City, they can also be obtained by calling (518) 474-3077. For births in NYC call (212) 788-4520. Read more...


John J. Woodward - Biography
Schenectady County Clerk JOHN J. WOODWARD has over 35 years experience in state and local government. Woodward was first elected to public office in May 1975 winning a seat on the Mohonasen School Board. He was 18 years old at the time–making him one of the youngest school board members ever elected in New York State. Read more...


Schenectady County Pistol Safety Course
In order to be considered for a Pistol Permit, you must submit proof that you have successfully completed one of seven approved handgun safety training programs within 6 months prior to the date of submission of the application. Read more...


Schenectady County office of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
The Schenectady County office of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is administered by the Schenectady County Clerk. Through our website you can find valuable links to online services which help you avoid lines, and are available 24 hours a day, from the comfort of your home. Special Notice: We have plate surrender boxes. Read more...