Obtaining a birth certificate is a crucial step for various life events, from enrolling in school to applying for a passport or social security benefits. If you were born in Jacksonville, Florida, or need to obtain a birth certificate for someone born there, knowing where to go and how to navigate the process is essential. The Bureau of Vital Statistics in Jacksonville offers accessible services to help you get the birth certificate you need, whether you prefer to apply in person or by mail. This guide will walk you through the steps for obtaining a Florida birth certificate from the Jacksonville Bureau of Vital Statistics, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
Obtaining Your Birth Certificate from Jacksonville Bureau of Vital Statistics
The Bureau of Vital Statistics in Jacksonville provides two primary methods for obtaining a birth certificate: walk-in service and mail-in service. Both options are designed to cater to different needs and preferences. To expedite the process, especially for walk-in services, downloading and completing the necessary application forms beforehand is highly recommended.
Walk-in Service: In-Person Application
For those who prefer immediate service, the Bureau of Vital Statistics in Jacksonville welcomes walk-in applicants.
Location:
You can visit the Bureau of Vital Statistics at:
1217 N Pearl Street,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Lobby Hours:
The lobby is open from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Payment Options:
For walk-in services, payments can be made via various methods for your convenience, including:
- Cash
- Check
- Money Order
- Visa
- Mastercard
Fees:
It’s important to note that a non-refundable $9.00 search fee is included in all orders. The fees for birth certificates are as follows:
- $9: For the first computer-generated certification.
- $4: For each additional computer-generated certification ordered at the same time.
- $14: For the first photocopy certificate (same-day walk-in service may require an additional $10 rush fee, when available).
- $4: For each additional photocopy certificate ordered at the same time.
- $1: Shipping and Handling Fee (likely applicable if you choose to have it mailed after walk-in application, clarify at the counter).
Mail-in Service: Application by Mail
If you cannot visit in person, the mail-in service provides a convenient alternative to obtain your birth certificate.
Mailing Address:
Send your application, required documents, and payment to:
Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics,
P.O. Box 210,
Jacksonville, Fl 32231-0042
Processing Time:
The standard processing time for computer-generated birth certificates is approximately 3 to 5 business days, excluding mailing time to and from their office. Photocopy certificates and amended records will require additional processing time.
Rush Orders:
For urgent requests, rush order processing is available for an additional $10 fee. To ensure your application is treated as a rush order, clearly mark “RUSH” on the outside of your envelope. While rush orders are prioritized, standard U.S. Postal delivery is used for mailing unless you provide a prepaid special delivery envelope.
Information and Documents Needed for Your Application
Whether applying in person or by mail, ensure you provide the necessary information to avoid delays. If you cannot access the application forms, you can submit a written request including the following details:
Information About the Person Named on the Birth Certificate:
- Full name as it appears on the birth record
- Sex
- Date of birth (if unknown, specify a range of years and include an additional $2.00 fee per year for searching)
- City or County of birth
- Full name(s) of parent(s) prior to their first marriage
Information About You (The Applicant):
- Full Name
- Your relationship to the person named on the birth record
- Mailing address
- Phone number
- Your signature
Type of Certificate Required:
Specify whether you need a:
- Computer-generated birth certificate: Printed on security paper with the Florida embossed seal, accepted by all state and federal agencies.
- Photocopy certificate: Also printed on security paper with the Florida embossed seal. Note that photocopy certificates are manually produced, incur an additional fee, and require more processing time.
Payment:
- Payments should be made via check or money order payable to “Vital Statistics.” Do not send cash.
- International payments must be in U.S. Dollars via Cashier’s Check or Money Order drawn on a U.S. Bank.
- Be aware that Florida Law imposes a $15.00 service charge for dishonored checks.
- Fees are nonrefundable, except for fees paid for additional copies if no record is found, which are refundable upon written request.
Photo Identification:
A valid photo ID of the applicant is mandatory. Acceptable forms of identification include:
- Driver’s License
- State Identification Card
- Passport
- Military Identification Card
By preparing all necessary information and choosing the service method that best suits your needs—walk-in or mail-in—you can efficiently obtain your birth certificate from the Bureau of Vital Statistics in Jacksonville. Remember to check the official website or contact them directly at (904) 359-6900, ext. 9000 for the most up-to-date information and any potential changes to procedures or fees.
