Increased Processing Times and Mail-In Only Requests

All South Carolina Vital Statistics offices are experiencing longer than usual processing times due to REAL ID implementation. To get a certified copy of a birth or death that occurred in South Carolina, visit a local office or order online through authorized third-party vendors, VitalChek and GoCertificates.

To get a certified copy of a marriage or divorce that occurred in South Carolina, submit the request by mail. In-person and drop-off services for these requests are temporarily unavailable. See mail-in directions for a Marriage Certificate or Divorce Report.

Hampton County Vital Records - Temporary Hours Change

Beginning Monday, Aug. 4, 2025, until further notice, Hampton County Vital Records hours of operation will be 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Thank you for your patience during this time.

Will My Record Have a Raised Seal?

No. DPH no longer issues what is traditionally defined as "raised seal" certificates. South Carolina stopped issuing the "raised seal" in March 1999.

From July 2008 to August 2016, all vital record certifications were issued on a security paper with a green border, a gold state seal in the lower left corner and the DHEC logo in the lower right corner.

SC DHEC adopted a new logo in 2016. Beginning in August 2016, vital record certifications are issued on security paper with a blue border, a gold state seal in the lower left corner and the DHEC logo in the lower right corner.

The certificate issued by South Carolina is acceptable for all legal purposes including obtaining a US Passport.

How Do I Request an "Apostille"?

An apostille, which is sometimes required by foreign governments, is issued by the S.C. Secretary of State's Office.

For information about obtaining an apostille, visit the S.C. Secretary of State's website (https://sos.sc.gov).

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vital records