Vital records include which of the following documents?

Vital records are official documents that provide essential information regarding significant life events. Birth and death certificates fall within this category as they record the occurrence of these pivotal events in an individual's life and serve as legal proof of identity and demographic data. These certificates are often required for various legal, medical, and administrative purposes, such as establishing citizenship, eligibility for certain benefits, and facilitating estate settlements.

In contrast, insurance policies, employment records, and academic transcripts do not pertain to the legal documentation of vital life events in the same fundamental way. While they may be important for specific administrative or legal situations, they do not reflect the critical milestones of birth and death, which are the core of what constitutes vital records. Therefore, the classification of birth and death certificates as vital records is accurate and recognizes their significance in maintaining a comprehensive record of individual life events.