A birth certificate is one of the most important legal documents you will need throughout your life. It serves as an official record of your birth and is often required for a variety of purposes, including obtaining a passport, enrolling in school, applying for government benefits, and verifying your identity. If you were born in Broward County, Florida, or need to obtain a birth certificate for someone born in the county, this guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a Broward County birth certificate.
Why You Might Need a Birth Certificate
A birth certificate is a critical document that can serve many purposes. Here are some common situations in which you may need to present a birth certificate:
Passport Application: A birth certificate is required to prove citizenship when applying for a passport.
School Enrollment: Schools often require a birth certificate as proof of a child’s age and identity during the enrollment process.
Driver’s License: When applying for a driver’s license, especially for the first time, you may need to provide your birth certificate.
Government Benefits: Certain government programs and benefits, such as Social Security and Medicaid, may require a birth certificate as part of the application process.
Marriage License: A birth certificate is often needed when applying for a marriage license.
Genealogical Research: Individuals conducting family history research may request birth certificates to trace their ancestry.
How to Obtain a Birth Certificate in Broward County
Obtaining a birth certificate in Broward County is a straightforward process. The Broward County Vital Statistics Office, a division of the Florida Department of Health, handles the issuance of certified copies of birth certificates for individuals born in the county. Here’s how you can obtain one:
- Determine Eligibility
Before requesting a birth certificate, it’s important to determine if you are eligible to receive one. In Florida, birth certificates are considered confidential records and are only available to the following individuals:
The person named on the certificate (if 18 years of age or older)
A parent or legal guardian of the person named on the certificate
A legal representative of the person named on the certificate
A spouse, child, grandchild, or sibling of the person named on the certificate (with proof of relationship)
A person with a court order authorizing access to the birth certificate
- Gather Required Information
To request a birth certificate, you will need to provide specific information to help locate the record. This information includes:
Full name of the person on the birth certificate
Date of birth
Place of birth (hospital or city in Broward County)
Full names of both parents (including mother’s maiden name)
Your relationship to the person named on the certificate (if requesting on behalf of someone else)
- Choose a Method of Request
There are several ways to obtain a birth certificate in Broward County. You can choose the method that best suits your needs:
In Person
You can visit the Broward County Vital Statistics Office in person to request a birth certificate. This option is ideal if you need the certificate quickly and prefer to handle the process directly. Here’s what you need to know:
Location: 780 SW 24th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (closed on holidays)
Documents Needed: A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport)
In-person requests are typically processed on the same day, and you will receive the certificate immediately.
By Mail
If you prefer to request a birth certificate by mail, you can do so by sending the required information and payment to the Broward County Vital Statistics Office. Here’s how:
Complete a Birth Certificate Application: You can download the application form from the Florida Department of Health in Broward County website or pick one up at the office.
Include a Copy of Your ID: A copy of your government-issued photo ID must be included with your application.
Payment: Include a check or money order made payable to the Florida Department of Health. The cost of a birth certificate is typically $15 for the first copy and $10 for each additional copy ordered at the same time.
Mailing Address: Broward County Vital Statistics Office, 780 SW 24th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Mail requests are processed within 5 to 7 business days, and the certificate will be mailed to the address you provide.
Online
For convenience, you can also order a birth certificate online through VitalChek, the authorized service provider for the Florida Department of Health. Here’s how:
Visit the VitalChek Website: Go to the VitalChek website and select the option to order a birth certificate from Florida.
Enter Required Information: Provide the necessary details about the person on the birth certificate and your relationship to them.
Verify Your Identity: VitalChek may require you to verify your identity through an online process or by submitting additional documents.
Payment: Pay the applicable fees using a credit or debit card. Online orders may also include a processing fee.
Online requests are typically processed within 5 to 7 business days, and you can choose expedited shipping for an additional fee.
By Phone
You can also request a birth certificate by phone through VitalChek. Call their toll-free number at 1-877-550-7330 to place your order. You will need to provide the required information and payment details over the phone.
- Pay the Required Fees
The cost of obtaining a birth certificate in Broward County is as follows:
First Copy: $15
Additional Copies: $10 each (if ordered at the same time)
Expedited Shipping: Additional fees apply if you choose expedited shipping for online or phone orders.
Payment methods vary depending on how you order. In-person requests can be paid with cash, check, or credit/debit card. Mail requests require a check or money order, and online or phone orders require a credit or debit card.
- Receive Your Birth Certificate
Once your request is processed, you will receive the birth certificate through your chosen method. In-person requests are fulfilled immediately, while mail, online, and phone requests may take a few days to a week, depending on processing and shipping times.
Special Considerations
There are a few special considerations to keep in mind when requesting a birth certificate in Broward County:
Delayed Birth Certificates: If you or your child’s birth was not registered within a year of the birth date, you may need to apply for a delayed birth certificate. This process may require additional documentation and verification.
Adopted Children: If you were adopted, your birth certificate may list your adoptive parents rather than your birth parents. If you need access to your original birth certificate, you may need to go through a court process to obtain it.
Corrections or Amendments: If there is an error on your birth certificate, such as a misspelled name or incorrect date, you can request a correction or amendment. This process may require supporting documentation and a fee.
Conclusion: A Vital Document for Life’s Important Moments
Obtaining a birth certificate in Broward County is a straightforward process that provides you with an essential document for many aspects of life. Whether you need it for legal purposes, personal identification, or family history research, understanding how to request a birth certificate and knowing what to expect will help ensure you receive this vital document without delay.