Access Choctaw County Birth Records
Birth records for Choctaw County are available through the county health department in Butler. The office is part of the Southwestern Public Health District and connects to Alabama's statewide vital records database. Choctaw County is a rural area in southwestern Alabama along the Mississippi border, with Butler as its county seat. The health department serves a small population spread across a large geographic area. Staff can access birth certificates for any birth in Alabama, not just local records. Most walk-in requests are completed the same day.
Choctaw County Quick Facts
Choctaw County Health Department
The Choctaw County Health Department operates as part of the Alabama Department of Public Health's Southwestern District. The facility on South Mulberry Avenue in Butler provides vital records services along with immunizations and disease prevention programs.
| Address | 1001 South Mulberry Avenue, Butler, AL 36904 |
|---|---|
| Phone | (205) 459-4026 |
| Fax | (205) 459-4027 |
| Hours | Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
| Website | alabamapublichealth.gov/choctaw |
The office may close during lunch and is closed on state holidays. Calling ahead is recommended to confirm hours. Parking is available on-site.
Requesting Birth Certificates
In Person
Visiting the health department is the fastest method. Bring valid photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport. Complete an application form at the office. Staff search the statewide database and print the certificate while you wait. Most visits take 15 to 30 minutes.
When requesting for another person, prove your eligibility. Parents can request for children. Adult children can get parents' records. Spouses, siblings, and grandparents are eligible. Bring relationship documentation. Legal representatives need court orders.
By Mail
Mail requests go to the Center for Health Statistics in Montgomery. Download Form HS-14 from the ADPH website. Complete the form, include ID photocopies, 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 with additional fees. Visit the ADPH website, follow the online ordering link, 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 Choctaw County office includes cash, checks, and money orders. Call to verify credit card acceptance.
Legal Requirements
Birth certificates 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.
Eligibility
The person on the certificate can request copies if at least 14 years old. Parents, spouses, adult children, siblings, grandparents, and legal guardians are eligible. Attorneys need written authorization from an eligible party.
Identification
Valid, unexpired photo ID is required. Accepted forms include driver's licenses, state IDs, passports, and military IDs. Bring relationship documentation when requesting for others.
Birth Registration
Alabama required statewide registration starting January 1, 1908. Alabama Code § 22-9A-7 mandates hospitals file certificates within five days. Pre-1908 records may exist in church records, family bibles, or county files.
Delayed Registration
Unregistered births can be filed under Alabama Code § 22-9A-9. Births over five years ago need documentary evidence and an affidavit. 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 amended. Fee is $20.00.
Adoption Records
New certificates replace sealed originals when a child is adopted. Adults 19 or older can request non-certified copies for $25.00 with an original signature. Birth parents may file a Contact Preference Form.