Search Baldwin County Birth Records
Birth records in Baldwin County are managed by the Alabama Department of Public Health through the county health department in Robertsdale. As the largest county in Alabama by land area, Baldwin County serves a growing population along the Gulf Coast region. The health department provides certified copies of birth certificates for individuals born anywhere in the state. Residents can request records in person for same-day service or submit requests by mail. Bay Minette serves as the county seat, though the health department office is located in Robertsdale for easier access to residents throughout this expansive county.
Baldwin County Quick Facts
Baldwin County Health Department
The Baldwin County Health Department handles all birth certificate requests for county residents. The office has access to the statewide vital records database, which means you can request birth certificates for anyone born in Alabama, not just Baldwin County. Walk-in visits are welcome during normal business hours and most requests are processed the same day.
| Address | 22251 Palmer Street Robertsdale, AL 36567 |
|---|---|
| Phone | (251) 947-3618 |
| Fax | (251) 947-3557 |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
How to Request Birth Certificates
In-Person Requests
The fastest way to obtain a birth certificate is by visiting the Baldwin County Health Department in Robertsdale. Bring a valid photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. You will need to provide the full name on the birth certificate, date of birth, place of birth, and the names of both parents. Staff will search the database and print your certified copy while you wait. Most requests take between 15 and 30 minutes.
Mail Requests
To request a birth certificate by mail, send a written request to the Baldwin County Health Department. Your letter must include the complete name at birth, date of birth, city and county of birth, mother's maiden name, father's full name, your relationship to the person on the certificate, the purpose of your request, your mailing address, and a phone number where you can be reached. Include payment by check or money order made payable to the Baldwin County Health Department. Allow 5 to 10 business days for processing, plus mailing time.
Statewide Access
The Baldwin County Health Department has access to the statewide vital records database maintained by the Center for Health Statistics in Montgomery. This means you can request a birth certificate for anyone born anywhere in Alabama, regardless of which county the birth occurred in. You do not need to contact the original county of birth separately.
Eligibility Requirements
Alabama law limits who can obtain certified birth certificates. According to Alabama Code Section 22-9A-22, eligible applicants include:
- The person named on the certificate if they are 14 years of age or older
- A parent listed on the birth certificate
- A legal guardian with court documentation
- A spouse, adult child, or sibling of the person named
- A grandparent of the person named
- An attorney representing an eligible party
- A legal representative of the estate for deceased individuals
- Government agencies for official purposes
You must bring documentation proving your relationship to the person on the record. This could include your own birth certificate, a marriage license, or legal guardianship papers. Requests from ineligible parties will be refused.
Fees and Costs
Birth certificate fees in Baldwin County are set by state regulation and are the same throughout Alabama. These fees cover the cost of searching records, verifying information, and issuing certified copies.
| First Certified Copy | $15.00 |
|---|---|
| Additional Copies (same order) | $6.00 each |
| Expedited Processing | $15.00 additional |
The health department accepts cash, personal checks, and money orders. Call ahead to confirm if credit and debit cards are accepted at the Robertsdale location. For mail requests, send a check or money order payable to the Baldwin County Health Department.
Legal Framework for Birth Records
Birth registration and vital records access in Alabama are controlled by state statutes and administrative rules. The key legal provisions that govern birth certificates include the following:
Alabama Code Section 22-9A-7 requires that all births occurring in Alabama be registered with the state within five days. For hospital births, the facility files the birth certificate directly with the state. Home births must be registered by the attending midwife, physician, or parent.
Alabama Code Section 22-9A-22 defines who has legal access to certified copies of vital records. This law protects personal privacy while ensuring that those with legitimate needs can obtain the records they require.
Alabama Administrative Code 420-7-1-.22 establishes the procedures and documentation requirements for issuing certified copies of vital records at the county level.
Baldwin County Archives
For historical research and genealogical purposes, the Baldwin County Archives maintains a collection of historical records. While birth certificates less than 125 years old are restricted, older records and supporting documents may be available for genealogical research. The archives can help you locate historical records that supplement birth certificate information.
Amending Birth Records
If there is an error on a birth certificate or if information needs to be added, you must file an amendment request with the Alabama Center for Health Statistics. The Baldwin County Health Department can provide you with amendment application forms and instructions. Common amendment requests include correcting spelling mistakes, adding a father's name, or changing a name due to adoption.
Minor corrections require an affidavit and supporting evidence. Major changes typically require a court order. Processing times for amendments vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the complexity of the change.
Historical Birth Records
Alabama began mandatory statewide birth registration in 1908. For births in Baldwin County before this date, you may need to consult alternative sources such as church baptism records, family Bibles, old census records, and historical newspapers. The Alabama Department of Archives and History in Montgomery holds some pre-1908 vital records and can assist with genealogical inquiries.
Baldwin County Health Department Resources
The image below shows the Alabama Department of Public Health page for Baldwin County with contact details and service information.
Cities in Baldwin County
Baldwin County includes many cities and towns along the Gulf Coast. Major communities include Bay Minette (the county seat), Daphne, Fairhope, Foley, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach. The county has experienced significant population growth in recent years as one of the fastest growing areas in Alabama. Residents from all cities and unincorporated areas can request birth certificates at the health department in Robertsdale.
No cities in Baldwin County have a population exceeding 100,000. For nearby city offices with larger populations, residents may consider the Mobile office in neighboring Mobile County.
Nearby Counties
Baldwin County shares borders with the following Alabama counties. Each county health department can issue birth certificates for any birth that occurred in Alabama.