Fort Smith Health Unit

Usually, the Arkansas Department of Health processes vital records requests within 2-3 weeks. An application could take longer if there are mistakes or missing information, or required documentation is missing.

We provide all the information you need to prepare your application for a birth record correctly. If you are still unsure of the process, please contact the Vital Records Section in Arkansas.

The standard price of a birth certificate request made through the Arkansas Department of Health is $12. 

For any extra copies of the same document, there is a $10 fee per additional document.

The processing fee for a birth record copy can be paid either by check or money order. Payments should be made out to the Arkansas Department of Health in Little Rock.

In addition to a correctly completed application form, it is essential that you provide a form of identification when you apply for a vital record.

Proving your identity is a mandatory requirement for requesting a copy of a birth certificate, and you cannot complete your application without one.

The ID that you submit with your birth certificate request must be an official photo ID issued by the U.S. Government.

If you are not named on the certificate you are requesting, you must also prove that you are a parent or legal guardian of the named person.