Obtaining a birth certificate is a crucial step for various life events, from enrolling in school and applying for a driver’s license to getting married or accessing government services. In Florida, the Bureau of Vital Statistics is the primary agency responsible for issuing birth certificates. Whether you need a birth certificate for yourself or a family member born in Florida, understanding the process can save you time and effort. This guide will walk you through the steps on how to get a copy of your Florida birth certificate, whether you prefer to apply in person or by mail.
Applying in Person for a Birth Certificate
For those who need a birth certificate quickly and are located in or can travel to Jacksonville, Florida, walk-in services are available. Visiting the Bureau of Vital Statistics in person allows for same-day service for photocopy certificates, although availability may vary. Here’s how to proceed with a walk-in application:
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Download and Complete the Application Form: To expedite the process, it’s highly recommended to download and fill out the DH726 Application for a Florida Birth Record form in advance. This form is available in English. If you prefer Spanish, you can download the DH726S Application for a Florida Birth Record form. Completing the form beforehand will save you time at the office.
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Visit the Bureau of Vital Statistics: Head to the Bureau of Vital Statistics located at 1217 N Pearl Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202.
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Lobby Hours: Walk-in services are available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Be sure to arrive within these hours to ensure you can be assisted.
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Payment Options: The Bureau accepts various forms of payment for walk-in applications. You can pay using cash, check, money order, Visa, or Mastercard.
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Fees: Be prepared to pay the necessary fees. Note that a non-refundable $9.00 search fee is included in all orders. Here’s a breakdown of the fees:
Fee Cost First computer-generated certification $9 Additional computer-generated certification $4 First photocopy certificate $14 Additional photocopy certificate $4 Same day walk-in rush fee (photocopy) $10 -
Processing Time: Computer-generated birth certificates typically take 3 to 5 business days for normal processing, not including shipping time. Photocopy certificates and amended records may require additional processing time. However, walk-in service for photocopy certificates can potentially provide same-day service, rush fee may apply.
Applying by Mail for a Birth Certificate
If you are unable to visit the Jacksonville office in person, applying by mail is a convenient alternative. This method allows you to request a birth certificate from anywhere. Here’s how to apply for a Florida birth certificate by mail:
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Download and Complete the Application Form: Similar to the walk-in process, download and fill out the DH726 Application for a Florida Birth Record form (English) or DH726S Application for a Florida Birth Record form (Spanish). Ensure all sections are completed accurately.
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Prepare Required Information and Documents: If you cannot access the application form, you can submit your request in writing. Make sure to include the following information:
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Information about the person named on the certificate:
- Full name on birth record
- Sex
- Date of birth (or specify a range of years and pay an additional $2.00 per year for searches with unknown date)
- City or County of birth
- Parent(s) full name(s) prior to first marriage
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Information about you (the applicant):
- Full Name
- Relationship to person named on record
- Mailing address
- Phone number
- Signature of Applicant
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Type of Certificate: Specify whether you need a computer-generated or photocopy certificate. Computer-generated certificates are generally sufficient and accepted by all state and federal agencies. Photocopy certificates are manually produced, cost more, and take longer.
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Payment: Include a check or money order payable to “Vital Statistics.” Do not send cash. For international payments, use a Cashier’s Check or Money Order in U.S. Dollars drawn upon a U.S. Bank. Remember that a $15.00 fee applies to dishonored checks.
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Photo Identification: Include a copy of your valid photo identification, such as a Driver’s License, State Identification Card, Passport, or Military Identification Card.
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Mail Your Application: Send your completed application form, payment, copy of your photo ID, and any supporting documents to the following address:
Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics
P.O. Box 210
Jacksonville, Fl 32231-0042 -
Processing Time: Normal processing time for mail-in applications for computer-generated birth certificates is 3 to 5 business days, excluding mailing time. Photocopy certificates and amended records will take longer.
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Rush Orders: If you need your birth certificate urgently, you can request a rush order. Include an additional $10 fee and mark “RUSH” clearly on the outside of your envelope. Rush orders are prioritized but still mailed via Standard U.S. Postal delivery unless you provide a prepaid special delivery envelope.
Understanding Birth Certificate Types and Fees
It’s important to understand the types of birth certificates available and associated fees to ensure you request the correct document and include the proper payment.
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Computer-generated Certification: This is printed on security paper with the Florida embossed seal and is widely accepted. It’s the standard and most cost-effective option.
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Photocopy Certificate: This is a photocopy of the original birth certificate, also printed on security paper with the Florida embossed seal. It requires manual production, hence it is more expensive and takes longer to process. It might be required for specific legal purposes, so confirm if it’s necessary for your needs.
Remember that a non-refundable $9.00 search fee is included in all orders. Fees are nonrefundable, except for fees paid for additional copies if no record is found, in which case a refund can be requested in writing.
Contact Information
For any questions or further assistance, you can contact the Bureau of Vital Statistics at (904) 359-6900, ext. 9000.
By following these steps, you can efficiently obtain a copy of your Florida birth certificate, whether you choose to apply in person or by mail. Ensure you have all required information and documentation ready to make the process as smooth as possible.
