Since 1927, Florida has maintained birth, death, marriage, and divorce records through its government system with the purpose being to provide this information to qualified individuals, protect individual rights, administer the law, and for public health purposes. Prior to 1927, some records were maintained through city ordinances, though not all cities and towns participated in recording notable events. If you or a family member is involved in an event that took place in Florida, then you are able to request records documenting the event if you wish. Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions concerning Florida vital records.What types of records are maintained?
In Florida, birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates are kept on file for both administrative use and use by the individual(s) named on the certificate, as well as select others that may request copies.
Who can get copies of Florida vital records?
Individuals named on certificates may receive copies of their own records, provided they are 18 years of age or older. Parents of a child named on a birth certificate are also eligible to receive copies, as are guardians and legal representatives. For death certificates, only immediate family members or legal representatives or people acting on the above-named individuals’ behalves may request these records. However, this is only for certificates that list the cause of death; certificates without the cause of death listed are available to the general public, as are deaths that occurred more than 50 years ago.
How can I get a copy of a certificate?
To request copies of Florida vital records, you must provide information about yourself and the individual(s) named on the record. For birth and death records, you must meet eligibility requirements (described above), provide the full name of the person on the certificate as well as the date and place of the event, and the names of the mother and father (birth certificate only). You also must share your full name, phone number, address, and relationship to the person listed on the record and provide a photocopy of a picture ID. Similar information must be provided for requests for marriage and divorce certificates. Indicate what type of certificate you want (if applicable), and enclose a check or money order for the appropriate fee. Requests may be made via mail, walk-in, fax, the internet, or phone. Phone and internet orders will be processed by an outside agency specializing in vital records requests.
How much will it cost to get a copy of Florida vital records?
Costs for certificate copies will vary depending on the type of certificate and the method of ordering and delivery selected.
What kind of information is contained in vital records?
The standard information included in a vital record is an individual’s name and the date and place of the event that occurred. Sometimes, other relatives’ names are included or other specifics concerning the event.
What are the reasons that people request copies of vital records?
People request records for a multitude of reasons, including identification, insurance benefits, passports, genealogy research, proof of age, employment, proof of citizenship, and more.
