Obtaining Birth, Marriage Certificates and Apostilles in Tennessee

Whether you need authorized copies of birth certificates, marriage certificates, or a state apostille in Tennessee, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. We’ll cover how to request these crucial documents online, by mail, or in person, and provide helpful links and addresses to streamline your experience.

Securing Authorized Copies of Birth and Marriage Certificates

Obtaining Birth Certificates

There are three convenient ways to request a certified copy of a birth certificate in Tennessee:

1. Online: Visit the Tennessee Office of Vital Records website to request certified birth certificates electronically.
2. By Mail: Fill out the Apostille/Certificate of Authentication Request form (ss-4504) and mail it to: Bureau of Vital Records
   1st Floor, Andrew Johnson Tower
   710 James Robertson Parkway
   Nashville, TN 37243
3. In Person: Stop by the Bureau of Vital Records during business hours at the address listed above.

Acquiring Marriage Certificates

To obtain a marriage certificate, reach out to the Clerk of the Superior Court in the county where the marriage took place, as they are responsible for maintaining these records. Keep in mind that procedures may differ from county to county.

Navigating the Tennessee State Apostille Process

Follow these steps to get a state apostille in Tennessee:

1. Notarize and Certify Your Document:

• Have your public document notarized by a Tennessee Notary Public.
• Take the notarized document to the County Clerk of the County where the Notary Public was commissioned and have the Notary Public’s signature certified.

1. Submit the Request Form:

• Access and complete the Apostille or Authentication Request Form (ss-4504).
• Send the completed form, notarized document, and payment to: Office of Authentications
  Tennessee Secretary of State
  Business Services Division
  312 Rosa L. Parks Ave – 6th Floor
  Nashville, TN 37243

1. Utilize In-Person Service:

• You can obtain Apostille or Authentication services in person during business hours at: 312 Rosa L. Parks Ave – 3rd Floor
  Nashville, TN 37243
• Arrive before 2:00 p.m. for same-day service.

1. Additional Certification for Authentication:

• If you receive an executed Authentication, contact the United States Department of State to certify the Tennessee Secretary of State’s signature.

Quick Reference: Links and Addresses

Birth and Marriage Certificates:

• Tennessee Office of Vital Records
• Street Address for Vital Records:
  1st Floor, Andrew Johnson Tower
  710 James Robertson Parkway
  Nashville, TN 37243

Apostille Information:

• Tennessee Secretary of State – Apostille & Authentication Guide
• Street Address for Office of Authentications:
  312 Rosa L. Parks Ave – 6th Floor
  Nashville, TN 37243

Simplifying the Process of Obtaining Vital Records and Apostilles in Tennessee

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the process of obtaining authorized copies of birth certificates, marriage certificates, and state apostilles in Tennessee. Remember to utilize the provided links and addresses to ensure a smooth and efficient experience. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the appropriate offices for assistance.