Note: All applicants must provide a photocopy or show a valid government, school or employer issued photo identification. Applications without proper identification will be rejected and not processed.

3 Methods to Obtain Copies of Vital Records

Option 1:
Walk-in: Average processing time is 30-45 minutes
Requirements: Services:
  • State office - Processes long-form birth certificates (required for travel), birth cards, death certificates, marriage certificates and divorce reports
    • 2600 Bull St., Columbia, SC 29201
  • County offices - Process birth cards and death certificates, and applications for corrections
Additional information:

Option 2:
Mail: Average processing time is 2-4 weeks (standard), 3-5 business days (expedited)
Requirements: Mailing address:
  • 2600 Bull St., Columbia, SC 29201
Additional information:

Option: 3
Phone and online orders: VitalChek is not affiliated with the State of South Carolina and a $12.95 charge in addition to state fees is applied.
  • Call 1-877-284-1008 (toll-free) or visit VitalChek 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.
  • Average processing time is 5-7 business days

For additional information, contact Vital Records.