Bexar County birth records are official documents that prove a person’s birth within the county’s boundaries. These records include certified birth certificates, indexes, and digital databases maintained by government offices in San Antonio and Bexar County. Most records date back to 1897, with some older documents available through special archives. People need these records for legal purposes like applying for passports, enrolling in school, claiming benefits, or tracing family history. This page explains where to find them, how to request copies, fees, required documents, and what to expect during the process.
Where to Get Bexar County Birth Records
Two main offices handle Bexar County birth records: the Office of the City Clerk in San Antonio and the Bexar County Clerk’s Vital Statistics Division. Both locations store original certificates and offer certified copies for legal use. The City Clerk’s office manages records from 1897 to present for births within city limits, while the County Clerk holds rural and military hospital records before 1967. Each office has its own request process, fees, and hours. Knowing which office to contact saves time and avoids delays.
Office of the City Clerk – San Antonio
The City Clerk’s Records Center at 101 S. Alamo Street, San Antonio, TX 78205, issues certified birth certificates for events in Bexar County since 1897. This office took over vital records duties in 2012 and now houses all current and historic filings in a climate-controlled vault. Staff index records by name, date, and filing number for fast retrieval. Certified copies cost $25 and require a valid government-issued photo ID, full name on the record, and proof of relationship if not the person named. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or major credit card. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Bexar County Clerk – Vital Statistics Division
The County Clerk’s office at 919 San Antonio Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78207, maintains birth records for rural areas and Wilford Hall Military Medical Center before 1967. It also offers microfilmed indexes from 1897–1945, searchable by mother’s maiden name, child’s name, or birth date. A digital database from the Texas Department of State Health Services covers 1970–2020 and allows keyword searches with PDF downloads. Certified copies cost $22, standard copies $23, and expedited service adds $10 for 24-hour processing. Genealogists can get research copies for $10 without the official seal. Submit the Bexar County Birth Record Request Form with ID and fee.
How to Request a Certified Copy
Requesting a certified copy of a Bexar County birth record requires three things: a completed application form, valid photo identification, and payment. The form asks for the full name at birth, date of birth, place of birth, parents’ names, and reason for the request. Only eligible people can receive certified copies—this includes the person named, their parent, legal guardian, spouse, or an attorney with power of attorney. Proof of relationship, such as a marriage license or court order, may be required. Mail or in-person requests are accepted, but online ordering is not available directly through county offices.
Required Documents
- Completed Bexar County Birth Record Request Form
- Copy of government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, state ID)
- Proof of eligibility (if not the person named on the certificate)
- Payment in correct amount (cash, check, or credit card)
Mail requests should go to the County Clerk’s office at 719 South Santa Rosa Street, Suite A, San Antonio, TX 78207. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return mail. Processing takes 5–7 business days after all documents are verified. Expedited service delivers results within 24 hours for an extra $10.
Fees and Payment Options
Fees for Bexar County birth records vary by office and type of copy. The City Clerk charges $25 for certified birth copies and $30 for death copies. The County Clerk charges $22 for certified birth copies, $23 for standard copies, and $10 for research copies used in genealogy. Expedited service costs an additional $10 at both locations. All offices accept cash, personal checks, and major credit cards. No money orders or foreign currency are accepted. Fees cover printing, verification, and secure handling. Discounts are not available except for research copies intended for non-legal use.
Fee Comparison Table
| Office | Certified Copy | Standard Copy | Research Copy | Expedited Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| City Clerk | $25 | N/A | N/A | $10 |
| County Clerk | $22 | $23 | $10 | $10 |
Online Access and Digital Records
While certified copies must be requested in person or by mail, some Bexar County birth records are available online for free viewing. The Texas Department of State Health Services provides a digital database for births from 1970 to 2020. Users can search by keyword and download PDFs, but these are not certified and cannot be used for legal purposes. The Bexar County Public Records Search portal also offers uncertified copies of various documents, including marriage licenses and land records, for $0.50 per page. These tools help researchers preview information before requesting official copies.
Historical and Genealogical Records
For births before 1970, especially between 1897 and 1945, researchers rely on microfilmed indexes and archival collections. The County Clerk’s office holds these films, which list births by mother’s maiden name, child’s name, or date. The LDS Genealogy Library provides scanned images of birth registers from 1873–1910, indexed online for easy access. Supplemental paternity registries from 1990–2005 document children born to unmarried parents and include affidavits of parentage. These resources are vital for family history projects and historical research.
Common Reasons People Need Birth Records
People request Bexar County birth records for many reasons. New parents need them to register their child’s name and obtain a Social Security number. Adults use them to apply for passports, enroll in college, or claim government benefits. Legal cases may require proof of age or identity. Genealogists study old records to build family trees. Employers sometimes ask for verification during hiring. Each use case demands a certified copy with the official seal. Uncertified or downloaded versions are not accepted for legal purposes.
Tips for a Smooth Request Process
To avoid delays, double-check all information before submitting your request. Make sure the name, date, and place of birth match official records. Bring two forms of ID if possible. Arrive early during business hours to allow time for processing. If mailing, use tracking and insure the package. Keep a copy of your request and receipt. If you’re unsure which office holds the record, call ahead. Staff can guide you to the right location based on the birth year and place.
Contact Information and Office Hours
For in-person visits, both offices are open weekdays. The City Clerk’s Records Center operates Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., at 101 S. Alamo Street. The County Clerk’s Vital Statistics Division is at 719 South Santa Rosa Street, Suite A, with hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Phone inquiries can be made during these times. Staff assist with questions about forms, fees, and eligibility. No appointments are needed for walk-ins.
Official Websites and Resources
Visit the City Clerk’s birth and death records page for forms and updates. The County Clerk’s public records portal allows free searches of uncertified documents. The Texas Department of State Health Services offers digital access to recent records. These links provide accurate, up-to-date information directly from government sources.
https://www.sanantonio.gov/Municipal-Archives-Records/Birth-Death-Records
https://www.bexar.org/2984/Public-Record-Searches
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vs/reqamend/default.aspx
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about Bexar County birth records. Below are answers to the most common ones. These help clarify the process and set correct expectations.
Can I order a birth certificate online?
No, Bexar County does not offer online ordering for certified birth certificates. You must submit a request in person or by mail with proper ID and payment. Some third-party services claim to help, but they charge extra fees and still rely on county offices. For security and accuracy, always go through official channels.
How long does it take to get a certified copy?
Standard processing takes 5–7 business days after the office receives your complete request. Expedited service delivers results within 24 hours for an additional $10. Mail delivery time is not included. If you need the document urgently, visit in person and pay for expedited service.
What if I don’t know the exact birth date?
Offices can search within a range of dates if the exact day is unknown. Provide as much detail as possible, including approximate year, hospital name, and parents’ full names. Microfilmed indexes from 1897–1945 allow flexible searches by mother’s maiden name or child’s name.
Can someone else request my birth record for me?
Yes, but only eligible individuals can receive certified copies. This includes parents, legal guardians, spouses, or attorneys with a power of attorney. They must provide their own ID and proof of relationship. A notarized statement may be required for third-party requests.
Are birth records free for genealogists?
Genealogists can obtain research copies for $10, which do not have the official seal and cannot be used for legal purposes. These are ideal for family history research. Certified copies still cost $22–$25 and require standard eligibility proof.
What happens if the record is not found?
If a search fails, the office will issue a “No Record Found” letter. This document states that no birth certificate exists under the provided details. It may be used for legal purposes when proving a record does not exist. Fees are not refunded for unsuccessful searches.
Do I need a birth certificate for a newborn?
Yes. Hospitals in Bexar County assist parents in filing the initial birth report. Parents receive a temporary certificate and must follow up with the City Clerk or County Clerk to obtain the official certified copy. This is required for Social Security registration, insurance, and school enrollment.