Cherokee County Birth Records Search
Birth records for Cherokee County can be obtained at the county health department in Centre. This office is part of the Northeastern Public Health District and has access to Alabama's statewide vital records database. Cherokee County is located in northeastern Alabama near the Georgia state line, with Centre serving as the county seat. The county includes Weiss Lake, known for bass fishing. Health department staff can access birth certificates for anyone born anywhere in Alabama. Most in-person requests are completed within 30 minutes.
Cherokee County Quick Facts
Cherokee County Health Department
The Cherokee County Health Department operates as part of the Alabama Department of Public Health's Northeastern District. Located on Cedar Bluff Road in Centre, this facility provides vital records services along with immunizations, disease prevention, and environmental health programs.
| Address | 833 Cedar Bluff Road, Centre, AL 35960 |
|---|---|
| Phone | (256) 927-3132 |
| Fax | (256) 927-2809 |
| Hours | Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
| Website | alabamapublichealth.gov/cherokee |
The office closes for lunch and on state holidays. Parking is available on-site. Walk-ins are welcome during regular business hours.
Requesting Birth Certificates
In Person
Visiting the Cherokee County Health Department is the quickest way to get a birth certificate. Bring a valid photo ID like a driver's license, state ID, or passport. Complete an application at the counter. Staff search the database and print your certificate while you wait. Most visits take about 20 to 30 minutes.
When requesting for another person, you must demonstrate eligibility. Parents can get certificates for children. Adult children can request parents' records. Spouses, siblings, and grandparents are also eligible. Bring proof of your relationship. Legal representatives need court orders or powers of attorney.
By Mail
Mail requests go to the Center for Health Statistics in Montgomery. Download Form HS-14 from the ADPH website. Complete all fields, include photocopies of your ID, and pay by check or money order to "Center for Health Statistics." Mail to P.O. Box 5625, Montgomery, AL 36103-5625. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days.
Online
VitalChek handles online orders for Alabama birth certificates. Additional fees apply for processing and shipping. Visit the ADPH website and follow the online ordering link. Create an account, enter the information, and pay by credit card. Certificates ship from Montgomery.
Fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Search (includes first certified copy) | $15.00 |
| Additional copies (same order) | $6.00 each |
| Expedited mail processing | $15.00 extra |
Payment at the Cherokee County office includes cash, checks, and money orders. Call to confirm credit card acceptance. VitalChek adds service fees to online orders.
Legal Requirements
Birth certificates in Alabama are restricted for 125 years. Alabama Code § 22-9A-22 makes certified copies legal evidence. Alabama Administrative Code 420-7-1-.22 specifies eligible requesters.
Who Can Request
The person on the certificate can request their own copy if at least 14 years old. Parents, spouses, adult children, siblings, grandparents, and legal guardians are eligible. Attorneys may request with authorization. Government agencies can access records for official purposes.
Identification
A valid, unexpired photo ID is required. Accepted forms include driver's licenses, state IDs, passports, and military IDs. When requesting for another person, bring relationship documentation.
Birth Registration
Alabama began statewide birth registration January 1, 1908. Alabama Code § 22-9A-7 requires hospitals to file certificates within five days. Pre-1908 records may exist in church records, family bibles, or county courthouse files.
Delayed Registration
Unregistered births can be filed through delayed registration under Alabama Code § 22-9A-9. Requirements vary based on time elapsed. Births over five years ago need documentary evidence and an affidavit. The fee is $20.00. Contact the Center for Health Statistics at (334) 206-2637.
Corrections
Errors are corrected through the Center for Health Statistics. Under Alabama Code § 22-9A-19, minor corrections within one year are not marked as amended. Later corrections show "AMENDED." Fee is $20.00.
Adoption Records
When adopted, a new birth certificate replaces the sealed original. Adults 19 or older can request non-certified copies of original certificates for $25.00. The request needs an original signature. Birth parents may file a Contact Preference Form.