Order official Georgia Birth Certificates and Vital Records online

A birth certificate is a vital document that serves as an official record of a person's birth. It is essential for various purposes such as obtaining a passport, enrolling in school, applying for a driver's license, and proving citizenship. Given its importance, it is crucial to understand the process of obtaining a Georgia birth certificate, including the requirements, costs, and application methods.

Who Can Request a Birth Certificate?

In Georgia, the following individuals are authorized to request a birth certificate:

• • The individual named on the certificate (if over 18 years old);
• • Parents named on the birth certificate;
• • Legal guardian or agent with proper documentation;
• • Grandparents, adult siblings, or adult children of the person named on the certificate.

What Documents Are Required?

To apply for a Georgia birth certificate, you need to provide specific documents. These generally include:

• • A completed and signed application form;
• • A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport);
• • Proof of relationship, if applicable (e.g., birth certificates for parents or children).

For downloadable forms and detailed instructions on how to complete them, you can visit the official website of the Georgia Department of Public Health - Vital Records.

How to Obtain a Georgia Birth Certificate

By Mail

To request a birth certificate by mail, send the completed application form along with the required documents and applicable fees to the Georgia Department of Public Health. Ensure you use a secure mailing option to avoid lost documents.

In Person

You can also obtain a birth certificate by visiting the local county Vital Records Office. Bring the completed application form, required documents, and payment. This method often provides the quickest results.

Online

For convenience, you can request a birth certificate online through a third-party service. Visit VitalChek to place your order securely. Follow the prompts to submit your application and pay the required fees electronically.

How Much Does a Birth Certificate Cost?

The cost for obtaining a Georgia birth certificate varies:

• • $25 for the initial copy;
• • $5 for each additional copy ordered at the same time.

Expedited service may incur additional fees, which vary based on the delivery method chosen. It's advisable to check the latest fee schedule on the official Georgia Department of Public Health - Vital Records website for the most current pricing information.

Processing Time

• • Mail: Processing can take 4-6 weeks from the date of receipt, excluding mailing time.
• • In Person: Certificates are often available the same day if the office visit occurs during regular business hours.
• • Online: Processing times vary but generally take about 5-10 business days. Expedited options are available for an additional cost.

By following these guidelines carefully, you can ensure a smooth process in obtaining a Georgia birth certificate. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the Georgia Department of Public Health directly. Their staff can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to help you through the application process.

If the event was recorded locally or if you need immediate access to detailed records, it is preferable to contact your county vital records office directly. Find the contact details of your local county vital records office here.