At a glance
- Order certified copies of birth and death certificates for events in the State of Franklin.
- Order online, by mail, or at the state vital records office or your county register of deeds.
- Have a valid photo ID ready. You'll need it for any certified copy.
Birth certificates
A certified birth certificate is used to prove age, citizenship and identity, for example when you apply for a passport, a driver license or school enrollment.
Who can order
- The person named on the certificate, if age 18 or older
- A parent, stepparent, spouse, sibling, child, grandparent or legal guardian
- An authorized representative, such as an attorney, with written proof
What you need
- The full name on the certificate, date of birth and county of birth
- Both parents' names as they appear on the record
- A copy of your valid photo ID
Death certificates
Funeral homes usually order the first certified copies for the family. Additional copies can be ordered later by immediate family members, the informant on the record, or anyone who can show a legal need, such as settling an estate.
Marriage and divorce records
Marriage licenses are issued and recorded by the county where the license was bought. The state office holds an index and can issue certified copies of records from later years. Divorce records are held by the clerk of court in the county where the divorce was granted.
How to order
| Method | Typical processing time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online | 5 to 7 business days, plus shipping | Expedited shipping available |
| By mail | 3 to 4 weeks | Include the order form and a copy of your ID |
| In person | Same day in most cases | State office or any county register of deeds |
Fees are listed on the order form. There is no fee for a birth certificate needed to apply for benefits from this department.
Correct or change a record
To fix a spelling error, add a parent, or reflect a legal name change or adoption, you'll file an amendment with supporting documents. Some changes need a court order. Corrections made within the first year after a birth are usually simpler.
Genealogy and older records
Birth records more than 100 years old and death records more than 50 years old are open for family history research. Older records may be held by the state archives.