How to obtain a birth certificate for your newborn
Bringing a new life into the world comes with many exciting responsibilities, one of which is obtaining your newborn's birth certificate, a document of profound importance in your child's life.
While our hospital does not issue birth certificates, we are here to guide you through the process, making it as stress-free as possible.
Our team will ensure you know exactly how to obtain this essential document for your baby. Whether you're still expecting or have already welcomed your little one, we're here to assist you in securing their birth certificate so you can focus on what truly matters—cherishing these special moments with your newborn.
Start the application process early
It's vital to complete your newborn's birth certificate application as soon as possible. This will help avoid any delays down the road. You can quickly get started by asking your nurse for the application form or conveniently download it from this page. Once you've completed the form, return it to your nurse to begin the process.
To ensure prompt processing, keep in mind that applications must be submitted to the Telfair BirthPlace's Birth Registrar's office before 2 p.m., as this allows us to help you by processing your application in a timely manner.
If you miss this window, don't worry—your nurse will guide you on ensuring it's processed the next day.
Who can submit the application?
Under normal circumstances, only the baby's mother or father would fill out and submit the birth certificate application. However, we make provision for our mothers in all circumstances. If a grandparent or other family member needs to help complete the application, please don't hesitate to contact your nurse for guidance. We will ensure your family's specific circumstances are handled efficiently and clearly.
Obtaining certified copies of the birth certificate
Once you've submitted your application, the next step is obtaining a certified copy of the birth certificate. This is an official document that you'll need for essential moments in your child's life, such as enrolling them in school or applying for their first passport. About seven days after submitting your application, you can purchase a certified copy from the Chatham County Health Department at 1395 Eisenhower Drive. You can do this in person or by mail. If you choose to mail your request, please allow additional time for processing and delivery.
The first copy costs $25; additional copies are available for $5 each when purchased simultaneously. If it's more convenient for you, you can visit any County Vital Records office in Georgia to obtain your copies.
Need assistance? We're here to help.
If you have any concerns or require help at any stage of the process, don't hesitate to contact the Birth Registrar at 912-819-6389. You can also contact the Chatham County Health Department at 912-356-2138 for further assistance.
Remember, although the hospital doesn't issue birth certificates, we are committed to helping you through this process and making it as easy as possible. You're not alone—we're here to ensure everything goes smoothly so you can focus on enjoying time with your new baby.