How Much Is A Birth Certificate in Florida.

Acquiring a birth certificate in Florida is a relatively straightforward task, but costs can fluctuate based on several factors. This guide will break down the fees connected with obtaining a Florida birth certificate, explain where you can request one, and outline the eligibility criteria and required documents.

Standard Fees

The base charge for a Florida birth certificate is $9.00 for the record search and $10.00 for the first printed copy. This brings the overall cost for one birth certificate to $19.00. Additional copies ordered simultaneously generally cost $9.00 each. These rates are set by the Florida Department of Health’s Bureau of Vital Statistics.

Additional Costs

Rush Fee

For those needing expedited service, an extra $10.00 rush fee can be applied, raising the total for a rushed birth certificate to $29.00.

Administrative Fees

Certain local offices, such as county tax collector locations, may impose extra administrative fees. For example:

The Hillsborough County Tax Collector adds a $6.25 administrative fee, making the total cost $25.25 for one certificate.
The Pinellas County Tax Collector also includes a $6.25 fee, totaling $25.25 for a single copy.

Online Ordering

If you choose to order via VitalChek, the state’s authorized online partner, extra processing fees apply. These fees typically range between $7 and $10 per order, plus shipping costs for expedited deliveries.

Where to Obtain a Florida Birth Certificate

Florida Department of Health Bureau of Vital Statistics: You can order directly through the state office in Jacksonville, either by mail or in person.
County Health Departments: Several county health departments issue birth certificates, with fees possibly differing slightly by location.
County Tax Collector Offices: Some counties, such as Hillsborough and Pinellas, provide birth certificate services at their tax collector offices.
Online: Through the VitalChek website, the only online service provider authorized by the state of Florida.

Eligibility and Required Documentation

According to Florida Statute 382.025, birth records are considered confidential. To obtain a birth certificate, you must be one of the following:

The individual named on the certificate (if 18 or older)
A parent listed on the birth certificate
A legal guardian (with proper guardianship documents)
A legal representative of the person on the certificate (with proper documentation)

You will need to provide valid identification, such as:

Driver’s License
State ID Card
Passport
Military ID

Special Circumstances

Commemorative Birth Certificates

Florida offers commemorative birth certificates for an additional fee. These certificates are decorative and suitable for display but are not legally recognized for official purposes.

Amended Birth Certificates

If changes need to be made to a birth certificate, additional fees may apply. The cost will depend on the type of amendment required.

Older Records

For birth records over 100 years old, they are classified as public records, and fees may differ for such documents.

Payment Methods

Accepted payment methods generally include:

Cash (for in-person requests)
Check or money order (made payable to “Vital Statistics”)
Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)

Be aware that using credit cards may incur convenience fees, often around 2.35% of the total amount.