Need to obtain a copy of your birth certificate in Tennessee? Whether it’s for a passport, school enrollment, or any other official purpose, getting your hands on this vital document is essential. This guide provides you with all the information you need to secure your birth certificate through various convenient methods.
Obtaining Your Birth Certificate In Person
For those who prefer a direct approach, obtaining your birth certificate in person offers immediate access. Tennessee provides two primary locations for in-person applications: the central Office of Vital Records and local County Health Departments.
Tennessee Vital Records Office
If you are in Nashville or can travel to the state capital, the Tennessee Vital Records office is a viable option.
| Location: | Hours: |
|---|---|
| Tennessee Vital Records, 1st Floor, Andrew Johnson Tower, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, TN 37243. (Entrance on Rosa Parks Blvd.) | Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Lobby Hours same) |
| Parking: | Rev. Kelly M Smith Way off Rosa Parks Blvd. |
Payment Options: The office accepts cash, checks, credit/debit cards, and money orders for fees.
Process: Upon arrival, you can complete a paper order form available at the office entrance. Present the form along with valid identification at the Customer Service Window. If you are not the person named on the certificate, or their parent, child, or spouse, you must provide documentation proving your legal right to the record.
Local County Health Department
A convenient alternative to the central office is your local County Health Department. Thanks to the electronic system, these departments can issue birth and death certificates registered anywhere in Tennessee. This eliminates the need to travel to the county where the birth actually occurred.
Process: Visit your local County Health Department with a completed application and the required fees. Identification is required at the time of application. Similar to the central office, if you are not a direct relative, you will need to provide legal documentation establishing your entitlement to the birth certificate. Acceptable documents include custody orders, letters of testamentary, or insurance policies.
Obtaining Your Birth Certificate By Mail
If visiting an office in person isn’t feasible, obtaining your birth certificate by mail is a straightforward alternative.
Required Items:
- Completed and Signed Application: Download and complete the appropriate application form: Birth Certificate Application.
- Identification: Include one of the following:
- A photocopy of a government-issued photo ID with your signature.
- A notarized application for a certified copy.
- For newborns, the “mother’s copy” of the birth certificate issued by the hospital (within the last two calendar years).
- If none of these are available, consult the ID requirements page for alternative options.
- Payment: Include a check or money order payable to “Tennessee Vital Records” for the correct fee.
Mailing Address:
Tennessee Vital Records
1st Floor, Andrew Johnson Tower
710 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, TN 37243
Obtaining Your Birth Certificate Online
For maximum convenience, you can order your birth certificate online. The Tennessee Office of Vital Records partners with VitalChek, a trusted third-party vendor, to process online orders.
VitalChek is the official and only authorized online vendor for Tennessee birth certificates. Note that VitalChek charges additional fees for its services.
Order Options:
- Shipped to You: If you need the certificate mailed to your address, order through VitalChek Online Order for Shipping.
- Pick Up In-Person (Nashville Only): If you can pick up your order in person in Nashville, use this option: VitalChek Online Order for Nashville Pick-Up.
Checking Your Order Status
Need to check the status of an order you’ve already placed? You can inquire about your order status by contacting the office. Be prepared to provide details about your order and your preferred contact method. Contact hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
By offering multiple accessible methods, Tennessee Vital Records makes obtaining your birth certificate as convenient as possible. Choose the option that best fits your needs and get your vital document today.
