Obtaining Birth, Marriage Certificates and Apostilles in Texas

If you need to gather authorized copies of birth certificates, marriage certificates, or get a state apostille in Texas, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Gathering Authorized Copies of Birth and Marriage Certificates

Birth Certificates

There are three ways to obtain a certified copy of a birth certificate in Texas:

1. Online: Visit the Texas Vital Statistics website to order a copy online.
2. By Mail: Send an application to:
   Texas Vital Statistics
   Department of State Health Services
   P.O. Box 12040
   Austin, TX 78711-2040
3. In Person: Visit the local county clerk’s office where the birth was recorded.

Marriage Certificates

Here’s how to get an authorized copy of a marriage certificate in Texas:

1. Online: Access the county clerk’s website where the marriage license was obtained.
2. By Mail: Request a copy by mail from the county clerk’s office that issued the marriage license.
3. In Person: Go directly to the relevant county clerk’s office.

Obtaining a State Apostille in Texas

Follow these steps to get an apostille for a Texas state document:

1. Ensure your documents are properly notarized or certified according to Texas requirements.
2. Submit your apostille request to:
   Texas Secretary of State
   Authentications Unit
   P.O. Box 13550
   Austin, TX 78711-3550
3. You can also hand-deliver documents to:
   James Earl Rudder Office Building
   1019 Brazos St.
   Austin, TX 78701
4. Include all required forms, payment for fees, and a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery if mailing your request.

Helpful Links and Addresses

Use these resources to streamline the process of obtaining vital records and apostilles in Texas:

Birth Certificates

• Texas Vital Statistics Website
• Mailing Address:
  Department of State Health Services
  P.O. Box 12040
  Austin, TX 78711-2040

Marriage Certificates

• Check your county clerk’s website for specific information.

State Apostilles

• Texas Secretary of State Website
• Mailing Address:
  Authentications Unit
  P.O. Box 13550
  Austin, TX 78711-3550
• In-Person Address:
  James Earl Rudder Office Building
  1019 Brazos St.
  Austin, TX 78701

Obtaining the vital records and apostilles you need in Texas is a straightforward process when you know where to look and what steps to take. By following this guide, you’ll have the documents you need in no time.