The DH 680 form, also known as the Application for a Florida Birth Certificate, is a crucial document for obtaining a certified copy of a birth certificate in the state of Florida. Whether you're a Florida native or just moved to the Sunshine State, understanding the process of acquiring a birth certificate is essential for various purposes, such as applying for a passport, driver's license, or social security benefits.
In this article, we'll delve into the world of the DH 680 form, providing a comprehensive guide on how to complete it, the required documents, and the steps to follow for a successful application.
Understanding the DH 680 Form
The DH 680 form is a standardized document issued by the Florida Department of Health, which is responsible for maintaining and issuing birth certificates. The form is used to request a certified copy of a birth certificate, which can be used for various purposes, such as:
- Applying for a passport
- Obtaining a driver's license
- Registering for school
- Applying for social security benefits
- Obtaining a marriage license
Who Can Request a Birth Certificate?
Not everyone can request a birth certificate in Florida. To be eligible, you must be one of the following:
- The person named on the birth certificate (registrant)
- A parent or guardian of the registrant
- A spouse, child, or grandchild of the registrant
- A court-appointed guardian or attorney
- A law enforcement agency or government official
Completing the DH 680 Form
To request a birth certificate, you'll need to complete the DH 680 form accurately and thoroughly. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you fill out the form:
- Section 1: Applicant Information
- Provide your full name, address, and contact information.
- Specify your relationship to the registrant (if applicable).
- Section 2: Registrant Information
- Provide the full name, date of birth, and place of birth of the registrant.
- If the registrant is deceased, provide the date of death.
- Section 3: Birth Certificate Information
- Specify the type of birth certificate you're requesting (e.g., certified copy, abstract, or photocopy).
- Indicate if you want a long-form or short-form birth certificate.
- Section 4: Signature and Verification
- Sign and date the form.
- Verify that the information provided is accurate and true.
Required Documents
To support your application, you may need to provide additional documents, such as:
- A valid government-issued ID (e.g., driver's license, passport)
- Proof of relationship to the registrant (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- A court order or power of attorney (if applicable)
Submitting the Application
Once you've completed the DH 680 form, you can submit it to the Florida Department of Health via mail, email, or in-person. Here are the submission options:
- Mail: Send the completed form and required documents to the Florida Department of Health, Vital Statistics, P.O. Box 210, Jacksonville, FL 32231-0042.
- Email: Scan the completed form and required documents and email them to .
- In-Person: Visit a local county health department or a Vital Statistics office to submit your application.
Processing Time and Fees
The processing time for a birth certificate application in Florida typically takes 3-5 business days. However, expedited processing is available for an additional fee.
The fees for a birth certificate in Florida are as follows:
- $10 for a certified copy
- $15 for a long-form birth certificate
- $5 for a short-form birth certificate
- $15 for expedited processing
Conclusion
Obtaining a birth certificate in Florida requires careful completion of the DH 680 form and submission of required documents. By following this guide, you'll be well on your way to acquiring a certified copy of a birth certificate. Remember to verify the information provided and submit your application through the designated channels.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Florida Department of Health or a local county health department.
FAQs:
What is the DH 680 form used for?
+The DH 680 form is used to request a certified copy of a birth certificate in Florida.
Who can request a birth certificate in Florida?
+Only authorized individuals, such as the registrant, parents, guardians, or law enforcement agencies, can request a birth certificate.
How long does it take to process a birth certificate application in Florida?
+The processing time typically takes 3-5 business days, but expedited processing is available for an additional fee.