Key Takeaways
- Tennessee vital records (birth, death, marriage, divorce) are issued by the Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Vital Records in Nashville and by county health departments for more recent events.
- Statewide registration began around 1914, with birth records generally available from that year forward. Public access opens after 100 years for births and 50 years for deaths, marriages, and divorces.
- You can order certified copies online through VitalChek, by mail to the Nashville office, or in person at local health departments. Historic records are available at the Tennessee State Library & Archives.
- All requests require a valid government-issued photo ID, a completed application, and a nonrefundable fee per copy. Online and expedited orders carry additional processing charges.
- Older historic Tennessee vital records (births up to 1925, deaths, marriages, and divorces up to 1975) have been transferred to the Tennessee State Library & Archives and are often searchable online through the Tennessee Virtual Archive.
Overview of Tennessee Vital Records
When you search for vital records TN, you’re looking for certified copies of birth, death, marriage, and divorce records for events that occurred within Tennessee’s borders. These official documents serve as legal proof of identity, family relationships, and life events for everything from passport applications to inheritance claims.
Tennessee vital records are created and maintained by the Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Vital Records, headquartered in Nashville. County health departments across the state also issue certified copies for certain record types, particularly more recent births and deaths. This hybrid model allows residents to access records either centrally or through their local health department, depending on what’s most convenient.
The state began recording births and deaths on a statewide basis around 1914. Marriage and divorce records at the state level cover roughly the last 50 to 60 years, with older records transferred to the Tennessee State Library & Archives for preservation and public access.
Certified copies are legal documents accepted by:
- U.S. Department of State for passport applications
- Tennessee Department of Safety for Real ID driver licenses
- Social Security Administration for benefits claims
- Courts for estate settlements and custody matters
- Insurance companies for beneficiary claims
Uncertified or digitized historical images, where available, serve genealogical and research purposes. These are typically accessible through the Tennessee State Library & Archives rather than the Office of Vital Records.
Types of Tennessee Vital Records Available
The Tennessee Department of Health issues four main types of vital records: birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce records. Each serves different legal and personal purposes, and understanding what information each document contains helps you request the right record for your needs.
Birth Certificates (Long Form)
A long-form Tennessee birth certificate is the most comprehensive birth document available. It includes: If you need to authenticate a birth certificate or other documents for international use, consider Missouri apostille services for fast and reliable processing.
| Information Category | Details Included |
| Child’s Information | Full legal name, date of birth, place of birth |
| Location Details | Hospital or facility name, city, county |
| Parents’ Information | Mother’s and father’s full names, birthplaces |
| Registration Details | Date registered, file number, registrar signature |
Under Tennessee law, new births must be filed within 45 days of the event. Since June 2019, all birthing facilities submit birth records electronically through the state’s VRISM (Vital Records Information System Management) platform, which has streamlined registration and reduced processing delays.
The person named on the certificate, parents, legal guardians, and certain close relatives can request certified copies. After 100 years, birth records become public and accessible to any requester.
Death Certificates
Certified Tennessee death certificates document a person’s passing and are essential for settling estates, claiming life insurance benefits, and closing accounts. Standard information includes:
- Decedent’s full legal name and demographic details
- Date and place of death
- Burial or cremation information
- Funeral home that handled arrangements
Cause of death information appears on the certificate but may be restricted on copies issued for general purposes. If you specifically need the cause of death section for insurance or legal matters, you must indicate this when ordering and demonstrate eligibility.
Death records must be filed within 30 days, and since 2018, Tennessee requires 100% electronic submission through the Electronic Death Registration System (EDRS). Medical certifiers (licensed MDs or DOs) complete the cause and manner of death sections before the funeral home can release the record.
Marriage Certificates
Tennessee Vital Records provides certified copies of marriage certificates that prove a marriage took place. This is different from the original marriage license (issued by a county clerk before the ceremony) and the ceremony return filed after the wedding.
A marriage certificate typically shows:
- Names of both spouses
- Date and county of marriage
- Officiant information
- Registration details
County clerks must register the marriage within 30 days after the ceremony. Tennessee marriage records at the state level generally cover events from the mid-20th century forward, with older records available through the State Library & Archives.
Divorce Certificates
The state issues divorce verification records rather than full divorce decrees. A Tennessee divorce certificate confirms:
- Names of both parties (husband and spouse)
- County where the divorce occurred
- Date the divorce was finalized
If you need the complete divorce decree with property division, custody arrangements, or other detailed information, you must contact the circuit court clerk in the county where your divorce was granted.
Apostille & Authentication
Tennessee documents destined for use in another country often require additional certification:
| Document Type | Use Case | Issuing Authority |
| Apostille | Countries in the Hague Convention | Tennessee Secretary of State |
| Authentication | Non-Hague Convention countries | Tennessee Secretary of State + Embassy |
The Tennessee Secretary of State verifies signatures on vital records issued by the Office of Vital Records. You’ll need a fresh certified copy before submitting for legalization, as authenticated documents cannot be older than a few months in many cases.
Where to Request Tennessee Vital Records
Where you order depends on the type of record, when the event occurred, and how quickly you need it. Tennessee offers multiple access points to accommodate different situations.
Tennessee Office of Vital Records (State Office)
The central repository for Tennessee vital records is located at:
Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Vital Records
421 5th Avenue North, 1st Floor
Andrew Johnson Tower
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: (615) 741-1763
This office maintains statewide vital records for the most recent 50 to 100 years, depending on record type. Hours are typically Monday through Friday during regular business hours, though you should verify current schedules before visiting.
The state office can:
- Issue certified copies of any Tennessee vital record within retention periods
- Process mail-in requests from anywhere
- Handle amendments, corrections, and paternity acknowledgments
- Provide verification letters for certain purposes
Local County Health Departments
Many county health departments issue certified copies of birth and death records for events that occurred in any Tennessee county, not just their own. This can be more convenient than traveling to Nashville or waiting for mail processing.
For example:
- Shelby County Health Department in Memphis issues birth certificates for events after 1930 and death certificates for recent decades
- Hamilton County Health Department issues certificates for Tennessee births within the last 100 years
- Davidson County Vital Records processes births after 1950 and deaths after 1966
Processing times and available record years vary by location, so contact your local health department before visiting.
Tennessee State Library & Archives
Historic Tennessee vital records eventually transfer to the Tennessee State Library & Archives in Nashville. This includes:
- Birth records older than 100 years
- Death, marriage, and divorce records older than approximately 50 years
- Original certificates, indexes, and microfilm images
The Archives releases another year of records each January. For example, 1925 birth records and 1975 death, marriage, and divorce records become available in January 2026, with public access typically opening by mid-February.
Online Ordering Services
Tennessee partners with VitalChek for online ordering of certified vital records. This service offers:
- 24/7 ordering availability
- Credit and debit card payment
- Expedited processing and shipping options
- Tracking for your order status
Additional processing fees apply on top of state certificate fees. Standard online orders may include $10 to $15 in vendor charges plus shipping costs.
Out-of-State Events
Tennessee cannot issue records for events that occurred outside the state. If you were born in Georgia, married in Kentucky, or your relative passed away in Alabama, you must contact that state’s vital records office directly. The CDC maintains a directory of all U.S. vital records offices if you need to locate the correct agency.
How to Order Tennessee Birth, Death, Marriage & Divorce Certificates
The ordering process follows similar steps across all record types: complete an application, provide identification, pay required fees, and choose your delivery method. Here’s how each option works.
Eligibility & Relationship
Not everyone can order certified copies of Tennessee vital records. Eligibility depends on your relationship to the person named on the record:
| Record Type | Who Can Order |
| Birth Certificate | Person named, parents, legal guardian, legal representative, spouse, adult child |
| Death Certificate | Next of kin, legal representative, funeral director, insurance beneficiary |
| Marriage Certificate | Either spouse, legal representative, close relatives |
| Divorce Certificate | Either party named, legal representative |
Once records reach the public access threshold (100 years for births, approximately 50 years for others), restrictions generally lift and any requester can order copies—if you need guidance on these processes, our seasoned team at Apostille-USA can assist.
Required Identification
All requests for certified copies require proof of identity. You must provide a clear photocopy or scan of a valid government-issued photo ID showing your signature. Acceptable forms include:
- Tennessee driver license or state ID card
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Military identification
- Other state-issued photo ID
For more information on authenticating documents for international use, see the Top 13 Apostille Services for Business Contracts | Expert Guide.
If you lack a photo ID, Tennessee may accept secondary documentation such as utility bills, bank statements, or signed affidavits, though requirements vary. Contact the Office of Vital Records at (615) 741-1763 for guidance on alternative identification.
By Mail
To order by mail:
- Download and complete the official Tennessee vital records application form from the Department of Health website
- Include a photocopy of your valid government-issued photo ID
- Write a check or money order payable to “Tennessee Vital Records” for the correct fee amount
- Mail everything to the Nashville address
Processing typically takes several weeks depending on volume. Do not send cash. If the office cannot locate your record after a search, the fee is generally not refunded.
Online
To order online through the approved vendor:
- Visit the VitalChek website and select Tennessee as the issuing state
- Choose your record type (birth, death, marriage, or divorce)
- Enter event details including date, location, and names
- Provide your shipping address
- Upload a copy of your ID if prompted
- Pay by credit or debit card
Expedited shipping options range from standard mail to overnight delivery. Expect additional fees of $15 to $30 or more depending on processing speed and shipping method.
In Person at Local Health Departments
Walk-in service is available at many county health departments:
- Arrive during business hours with your photo ID
- Complete the application form on site
- Pay the required fee (payment methods vary by location)
- Wait for your certified copy
Some offices, like those in Shelby County and Blount County, can issue same-day copies if the record is found in the state database. Not all records are immediately available, so call ahead to confirm availability.
Turnaround Times
| Method | Typical Processing Time |
| Mail to Nashville | 3 to 6 weeks |
| Online (standard shipping) | 2 to 3 weeks |
| Online (expedited) | 3 to 7 business days |
| In person (if record on file) | Same day |
Check the Tennessee Vital Records website for current estimates before ordering, as times fluctuate with demand.
Fees, Payment Methods & Special Services
Tennessee charges set fees per certified copy with additional charges for specialty services. Most fees are nonrefundable once a search is conducted, even if no record is found.
Standard Certificate Fees
Typical fee structure (verify current amounts on the official website):
| Service | Approximate Fee |
| First certified copy | $15 |
| Each additional copy (same order) | $5 to $10 |
| Online processing fee | $10 to $15 |
| Expedited shipping | $15 to $30+ |
Fees change periodically, so always confirm exact amounts before submitting payment.
Payment Methods
Accepted payment varies by ordering method:
- Mail orders: Personal check or money order payable to “Tennessee Vital Records” (avoid sending cash)
- In-person county offices: Cash, check, debit, or credit depending on location
- Online vendors: Major credit and debit cards
Some county offices may only accept certain payment types, so call ahead if you plan to visit in person.
Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAOP)
If paternity was established after a birth through a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity, you can request a certified copy of the birth certificate with the VAOP attached. This typically costs an additional $5 on top of the standard birth certificate fee.
The father’s name appears on the birth certificate only after proper paternity establishment, either through the VAOP process or court order.
Expedited & Express Shipping
Online ordering through VitalChek offers several shipping tiers:
- Standard mail (slowest, lowest cost)
- Priority mail (faster, moderate cost)
- Express or overnight delivery (fastest, highest cost)
Not all county health department offices offer express mailing options. If you need a document urgently, online ordering with expedited shipping or in-person pickup may be your best options.
Apostille & Authentication Fees
The Tennessee Secretary of State charges separate fees for apostille and authentication services. These are in addition to what you pay for the certified copy from Vital Records. Processing times and fees vary, so check the Secretary of State’s website for current information.
Historic Tennessee Vital Records & Genealogy Research
Older Tennessee vital records eventually become public and transfer to the Tennessee State Library & Archives, making them accessible to genealogists and family historians without the eligibility restrictions that apply to recent records.
Release Schedule & Cutoff Years
Each January, the Tennessee Department of Health releases another year of records to public access:
| Record Type | Year Released January 2026 |
| Birth Records | 1925 |
| Death Records | 1975 |
| Marriage Records | 1975 |
| Divorce Records | 1975 |
These newly released records are typically processed and made publicly accessible by mid- to late February. The pattern continues annually, with 1926 births and 1976 deaths, marriages, and divorces opening in January 2027.
What’s Available at the Library & Archives
The Tennessee State Library & Archives holds:
- Historic birth, death, marriage, and divorce records older than state retention periods
- County-level records predating statewide registration (pre-1914)
- Indexes to help locate specific records
- Microfilm images of original certificates
- Related documents such as delayed birth registrations
Not all historic records survived intact. Some counties have better preservation than others, particularly for events before 1914.
Using the Tennessee Virtual Archive (TeVA)
Many digitized Tennessee vital records and indexes are accessible online year-round through the Tennessee Virtual Archive. From home, you can:
- Search indexes by name, date, and county
- View and download digital images of historic certificates
- Print copies for personal genealogical use
These digital copies are not certified and cannot be used for legal purposes, but they provide valuable documentation for family research.
On-Site Research in Nashville
For records not yet digitized or for more comprehensive research:
- Check the Library & Archives hours before visiting (located in Nashville)
- Bring a photo ID for registration
- Know approximate dates and counties for the events you’re researching
- Review reading room rules regarding photography and note-taking
- Ask staff for assistance with microfilm readers and finding aids
When to Use State vs. Archives
| Your Need | Where to Go |
| Certified copy for legal use (recent event) | Office of Vital Records |
| Certified copy for legal use (older event) | Office of Vital Records |
| Research/genealogy (no certification needed) | State Library & Archives or TeVA |
| Images of historic records | State Library & Archives or TeVA |
The Office of Vital Records remains the source for any certified copy needed for official purposes, regardless of the record’s age.
County-Level Examples: Shelby County & Blount County
While the state office in Nashville is the central hub, many Tennesseans find it more convenient to obtain vital records through their local county health departments. Here’s how two representative counties handle requests.
Shelby County Health Department, Memphis
The Shelby County Health Department Office of Vital Records serves the Memphis area and can issue certified copies of Tennessee birth and death certificates for events that occurred in any county of the state.
Available Records:
- Birth certificates for births after 1930
- Death certificates for deaths within the last 50 years
Shelby County processes a high volume of requests given its population, making it a well-equipped option for Memphis-area residents.
Ordering from Shelby County
You can request certified copies from Shelby County:
- In person: Visit the Office of Vital Records during business hours with photo ID
- By mail: Print and complete the county’s request form, include payment, and mail to the address provided on their website
Check the Shelby County Health Department website for current fees, acceptable payment methods, and any appointment requirements. Walk-in availability and wait times can vary.
Blount County Health Department, Maryville
For residents in the eastern part of the state, the Blount County Health Department offers vital records services:
Location:
301 McGhee Street
Maryville, TN 37801
Issuance Hours:
Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (verify current hours before visiting)
The office issues birth and death certificates for Tennessee events within their database access. For individuals needing additional documentation, such as an FBI Criminal Background Check: How to Obtain, comprehensive guidance on the application process is available.
Contact Information
Blount County Health Department:
- Phone: 865-983-4582
- Fax: 865-983-4574
Contact the office for current fees, ID requirements, and which record years they can access directly.
When County Offices Cannot Help
Local county health departments have limitations. You’ll need to contact the Tennessee Department of Health Office of Vital Records in Nashville or the State Library & Archives if you need:
- Birth records from before 1930
- Death records older than 50 years
- Marriage or divorce records (most counties do not issue these)
- Amendments or corrections to any record
- Records for events that occurred outside Tennessee
Out-of-State & Special Circumstances
Tennessee vital records offices can only issue records for events that occurred within Tennessee’s borders. Different procedures apply for out-of-state events and special situations.
Events Outside Tennessee
If a birth, death, marriage, or divorce occurred in another state or U.S. territory, you must request records from that jurisdiction’s department of health or vital records office. Tennessee has no authority to issue or verify out-of-state events.
To find the correct office:
- Search for “[state name] vital records” on a government website (look for .gov domains)
- Use the CDC’s vital records directory for contact information
- Check aspx government websites for official state portals
Each state has its own fees, forms, and processing times.
Adoption & Amended Birth Certificates
Adoption-related records in Tennessee follow specific legal procedures:
- Original birth certificates may be sealed upon adoption
- Amended certificates showing adoptive parents replace the original
- Accessing sealed records typically requires court orders
- Some adult adoptees may petition for identifying information
Contact Tennessee Vital Records or consult an attorney for guidance on accessing sealed or amended records.
Name Changes & Corrections
To correct errors on Tennessee vital records or update names following marriage, divorce, or court-ordered name changes:
- Obtain the required supporting documentation (court order, hospital records, marriage license, etc.)
- Complete the appropriate amendment form from the Office of Vital Records
- Pay the amendment processing fee
- Submit by mail or in person
Minor corrections may require less documentation than significant changes. The office reviews each request individually.
International Use of Tennessee Records
For use outside the U.S., certified Tennessee vital records typically need additional legalization:
- Order a fresh certified copy from the Office of Vital Records
- Submit to the Tennessee Secretary of State for apostille (Hague Convention countries) or authentication (non-Hague countries)
- For non-Hague countries, additional embassy or consulate certification may be required
Documents should be recently issued, as some foreign governments reject certificates older than 3 to 6 months.
FAQ – Tennessee Vital Records
How far back do Tennessee birth and death records go?
Statewide registration of births and deaths in Tennessee began around 1914. Certified copies from 1914 onward are generally available through the Tennessee Office of Vital Records for events within the current retention period. Some earlier local records exist in county archives or the Tennessee State Library & Archives for select cities and years, particularly Nashville, Memphis, and Chattanooga, which maintained registration before the state mandate.
Can I get a Tennessee birth certificate the same day?
Yes, many county health departments including Shelby County and Blount County can issue same-day certified copies if the record is found in the state database. You’ll need to visit in person during business hours with valid photo ID and payment. Mailed requests to the state office take several weeks, and even online expedited orders require at least a few business days for shipping.
Do I need a certified copy or will a photocopy work?
For legal purposes, agencies like the U.S. Department of State (passports), Social Security Administration, courts, and most government offices require an original certified copy with a raised or embossed seal. Photocopies, printouts, or images of certificates are not accepted. Genealogical research and personal records can use uncertified copies or digital images from the Tennessee Virtual Archive.
Can anyone access historic Tennessee vital records?
Once records reach the public access threshold (100 years for births, approximately 50 years for deaths, marriages, and divorces), they are largely open to any researcher through the Tennessee State Library & Archives or Tennessee Virtual Archive. More recent records remain restricted to eligible relatives, legal representatives, or individuals with a direct and tangible interest in the record.
What if the Tennessee office cannot find my record?
If a search does not locate your record, the processing fee is usually not refunded. Before assuming the record doesn’t exist, double-check the spelling of names, verify the event date, and confirm the correct county. Consider variant spellings, maiden names, or nicknames. For events before 1914, check county clerk records, local archives, church registers, or neighboring states if the event may have occurred elsewhere. Some families lived near state borders and registered events in whichever location was most convenient.
