Obtaining a Birth Certificate

To obtain a birth certificate, you must either be the individual named on the certificate or the name individual's parent, legal guardian, grandparent, adult sibling, adult child, spouse, or a legal representative. You'll need to present a valid photo ID at the time of the request, or, if you are requesting the birth certificate by mail, you must also include a photocopy of your valid photo ID.

You'll also need to provide a few details for the person named on the certificate, like his or her name, date and county of birth, his or her mother's maiden name and date of birth, and your telephone number and return address.

Payment

The fee is $25 and will get you one certified copy. If you need additional certified copies at the time of the request, those will be $5 each. You can pay by cash, money order, cashier's check, debit or credit card (plus a processing fee), or local check.

Submitting Your Request

First, fill out and print the birth certificate request form. Then, deliver it (and your ID and payment) to the probate court in person or mail it (and your payment and a copy of your ID) to: Emanuel County Vital Records, P.O. Box 70, Swainsboro, GA 30401.

Next Steps—If Necessary

If your request returns a “No Record On File” response, this means no birth certificate is on record. You will need to follow the instructions to file for a delayed birth certificate.