Clarke County Birth Records
Birth records for Clarke County residents can be obtained at the county health department in Grove Hill. The office belongs to the Southwestern Public Health District and has access to Alabama's statewide vital records system. Clarke County is located in southwestern Alabama with Grove Hill as its county seat. The county has a rural character with forests covering much of the land. Staff at the health department can retrieve birth certificates for any Alabama birth. Most walk-in requests are processed the same day during regular business hours.
Clarke County Quick Facts
Clarke County Health Department
The Clarke County Health Department is part of the Alabama Department of Public Health's Southwestern District. Located on Highway 84 East in Grove Hill, the facility provides vital records along with immunizations and other public health services.
| Address | 22600 Highway 84 East, Grove Hill, AL 36451 |
|---|---|
| Phone | (251) 275-3772 |
| Fax | (251) 275-8066 |
| Hours | Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
| Website | alabamapublichealth.gov/clarke |
The office closes for lunch and state holidays. Parking is available on-site. Walk-ins are accepted during business hours.
How to Request Birth Certificates
In Person
Visiting the health department is the fastest option. Bring valid photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. Complete an application at the counter. Staff search the database and print the certificate while you wait, usually within 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 also 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 processing fees. Visit the ADPH website, follow the online ordering link, and pay by credit card.
Fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Search (includes first certified copy) | $15.00 |
| Additional copies (same order) | $6.00 each |
| Expedited mail processing | $15.00 extra |
Payment includes cash, checks, and money orders. Call to confirm credit card acceptance.
Legal Requirements
Birth certificates are restricted for 125 years under Alabama Code § 22-9A-22. The Alabama Administrative Code 420-7-1-.22 lists eligible requesters.
Eligibility
The person on the certificate (if 14 or older), parents, spouses, adult children, siblings, grandparents, and legal guardians may request copies. Attorneys need written authorization.
Identification
Valid, unexpired photo ID is required. Accepted forms include driver's licenses, state IDs, and passports.
Birth Registration
Alabama required statewide registration starting January 1, 1908 under Alabama Code § 22-9A-7. Pre-1908 records may exist in church records or county files.
Delayed Registration
Unregistered births can be filed under Alabama Code § 22-9A-9. Births over five years ago need documentary evidence. Fee is $20.00.
Corrections
Errors are corrected through the Center for Health Statistics under Alabama Code § 22-9A-19. Fee is $20.00.
Adoption Records
Adults 19 or older can request non-certified copies of original birth certificates for $25.00. An original signature is required.