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 Florida and need to get your hands on your birth certificate, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information. The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics offers two convenient methods to obtain your birth certificate: walk-in and mail-in services. Understanding each option, along with the required steps and fees, will help streamline the process and ensure you receive your document efficiently.
Obtaining Your Florida Birth Certificate: Walk-in and Mail-in Options
The Bureau of Vital Statistics in Jacksonville, Florida, is the primary office for obtaining birth certificates in the state. They provide services both for those who prefer an in-person visit and those who opt for the convenience of mail.
Walk-in Service
For individuals who need their birth certificate quickly or prefer face-to-face service, the walk-in option is available.
Location:
- Bureau of Vital Statistics, 1217 N Pearl Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Payment Methods Accepted:
- Cash
- Check
- Money Order
- Visa
- Mastercard
When visiting the office, you can submit your application in person and make your payment directly. Same-day service for photocopy certificates may be available for a rush fee of $10, depending on availability.
Mail-in Service
If you are unable to visit the Jacksonville office in person, or prefer to apply from home, the mail-in service is a convenient alternative.
Mailing Address:
- Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics, P.O. Box 210, Jacksonville, Fl 32231-0042
Required Documents for Mail-in Application:
To apply by mail, you will need to download and complete the application form DH726 Application for a Florida Birth Record (English PDF 99K) or DH726S Application for a Florida Birth Record (Spanish PDF 378K). If you cannot access the application forms, you can submit a written request, including the following information:
-
Information about the person named on the birth certificate:
- Full name as it appears on the birth record
- Sex
- Date of birth (or a range of years if unknown, with an additional $2.00 fee per year searched)
- City or County of birth
- Full names of both parents prior to their first marriage
-
Information about the applicant (you):
- Full Name
- Your relationship to the person named on the birth record
- Mailing address
- Phone number
- Your signature
-
Type of Certificate Requested: Specify whether you need a:
- Computer-generated birth certificate (standard, accepted by all agencies)
- Photocopy certificate (manually produced, requires extra time and fees)
-
Payment: Include a check or money order payable to “Vital Statistics”. International payments must be made via Cashier’s Check or Money Order in U.S. Dollars drawn on a U.S. Bank. Do not send cash.
-
Photocopy of Valid Photo Identification: Acceptable forms include:
- Driver’s License
- State Identification Card
- Passport
- Military Identification Card
Fees and Processing Times
Understanding the fees and processing times is essential for planning your birth certificate request.
Fees:
- Search Fee: A non-refundable $9.00 search fee is included in all orders.
- Computer-Generated Certification:
- First copy: $9
- Additional copies (ordered at the same time): $4 each
- Photocopy Certificate:
- First copy: $14
- Additional copies (ordered at the same time): $4 each
- Same-day walk-in rush fee (when available): $10 additional
- Shipping and Handling Fee: $1 per order
- Additional Search Fee (for unknown date range): $2.00 per calendar year searched
Processing Times:
- Computer-generated birth certificates (mail-in): 3 to 5 business days, excluding mailing time.
- Photocopy certificates and amended records (mail-in): Require additional processing time.
- Rush Orders (mail or walk-in): Given priority processing for an extra $10 fee. Mark “RUSH” on the envelope for mail-in orders.
Important Notes on Fees and Processing:
- Fees are non-refundable, except for fees paid for additional copies if no record is found, which are refundable upon written request.
- Dishonored checks are subject to a $15.00 service charge under Florida Law.
- Standard U.S. Postal delivery is used for all orders unless a prepaid special delivery envelope is provided.
By understanding these steps and requirements, you can confidently navigate the process of obtaining your Florida birth certificate, whether you choose to visit the Bureau of Vital Statistics in person or apply by mail.
