Print Birth / Death Application Form

Birth Certificates

Can you obtain a certified birth certificate at City Hall?

Yes. We can print short form birth certificates for births in Texas from 1926 (in most cases) to present. 

Who can obtain a birth certificate?

Birth and death records are not public records and are therefore issued only to qualified applicants.  A qualified applicant is defined by the State of Texas as the registrant, his/her immediate family member either by blood, marriage, or adoption; his/her guardian or legal agent (must provide proper documentation).  

Immediate family includes yourself, mother, father, brother, sister, grandparent, or child.  Please be advised: if a father is not listed on the certificate no one on the father's side will be allowed to obtain copies.  

How much does a birth certificate cost?
Birth certificates are $23 per copy. If you would like a protector cover, those are available for an additional $3. 
What documents do I need to obtain a birth certificate?
You will need to fill out a Birth & Death Application form that is located on this page. We will also require a valid photo ID. If you do not have an ID, please contact City Hall for a list of acceptable IDs. 903.693.3868
I live in another state. How do I get my birth certificate from Texas?
  • If the birth occurred in Carthage, TX you may submit the application form and payment through the mail.
  • If the birth occurred in a different county , you may contact that county for their procedures. 
  • You may use the Texas Department of State Health Services website to order one.
Can I order a birth certificate through the mail?
Yes. Please fill out the Birth / Death Application form that is located on this page, and send a check or money order payable to the City of Carthage. The form must be notarized and a copy of your valid ID sent with it. Orders are processed on the day they are received.

Death Certificates

Who can obtain a death certificate?
For deaths within the past 25 years, only the immediate family members of the person whose name is on the death certificate are eligible to request a copy. A qualified applicant is defined by the State of Texas as the registrant, his/her immediate family member either by blood, marriage, or adoption; his/her guardian or legal agent (must provide proper documentation).  
Immediate family includes yourself, mother, father, brother, sister, grandparent, or child.  
How much does a death certificate cost?
$21 for the first copy and $4 for any additional copies
Can I obtain a death certificate for any death in Texas?
No. We only have access to the death records that occurred in the city limits of Carthage. If the death occurred in the county, you will need to contact the Panola County Clerk at 903.693.0302
Can I order a death certificate through the mail?
Yes. Please fill out the Birth / Death Application form that is located on this page, and send a check or money order payable to the City of Carthage. The form must be notarized and a copy of your valid ID sent with it. Orders are processed on the day they are received.