Obtaining authorized copies of vital records and apostilles in Arizona is a straightforward process when you know where to start. This guide will walk you through the steps to secure birth certificates, marriage certificates, and apostilles for your important documents.
Obtaining Authorized Copies of Birth Certificates in Arizona
There are several ways to request a certified copy of your birth certificate in Arizona:
Ordering Birth Certificates Online
The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) offers an online portal for ordering birth certificates with VitalChek.
Requesting Birth Certificates by Mail and In-Person
To order a birth certificate by mail or in-person, contact the appropriate Local County Health Department.
Download the Birth Certificate Request Form
- To order a birth certificate by mail or in-person, contact the appropriate Local County Health Department.
- Download the Birth Certificate Request Form
- Include the following:
- Clear photocopy of the front and back of your valid, signed government photo ID OR have your signature notarized
- Proof of relationship enclosed is required (birth certificates, certified court documents, marriage certificate, etc)
- Sign the application/Original signature required
- Include self-addressed stamped envelope
- Correct fee enclosed, please do not mail cash
- Notary is not applicable for gov’t agency requests, please submit copy of gov’t agency ID badge.
- $20 fee for certified copy
Securing Authorized Copies of Marriage Certificates in Arizona
Marriage certificates in Arizona are maintained by the Clerk of the Superior Court in the county where the marriage took place. These certificates are not issued by the state. To obtain a marriage certificate, contact the relevant county clerk’s office for specific procedures, which can be found on this page.
Obtaining a State Apostille in Arizona
An apostille certifies an Arizona notary public, court clerk, or state document custodian for use in foreign countries. Here’s how to get one:
Requesting an Apostille by Mail
- Prepare your document(s) with the appropriate signatures and seals.
- Complete the Apostille/Certificate of Authentication Request form (PDF).
- Fee: $3 per document.
Payment: Checks and money orders should be made payable to “Arizona Secretary of State.”
Note: Please avoid sending cash through the mail. For requests sent to Puerto Rico or any U.S. territory, a “notarial capacity certificate” is required, and the requestor must pay an $18 fee. - Include return postage (Fedex, UPS, DHL, etc.) with your mailing address as both sender and recipient.
- Mail the form and your document(s) to the Arizona Secretary of State’s office:
Secretary of State
Attn: Apostille Dept.
1700 W. Washington Street, Fl. 7
Phoenix, AZ 85007-2808
Important Website Links and Addresses
Birth and Death Certificates
- Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS)
- ADHS Street Address: Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 47814
Olympia, WA 98504-7814
Apostille Information
- Arizona Secretary of State – Apostille and Document Authentication
- Arizona Secretary of State Street Address: Office of Authentications
150 North 18th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Streamlining Your Document Authentication Process
By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you can efficiently navigate the process of obtaining authorized copies of birth certificates, marriage certificates, and apostilles in Arizona. Remember to check specific requirements and fees for each service to ensure a smooth experience.
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