Glades County birth records are official documents filed with the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics for every birth registered in Moore Haven, Buckhead Ridge, Palmdale, and the rest of the county. Each record lists the full name, date of birth, place of birth, parent names, and registration number.
You can order a certified copy of a Glades County birth record in person, by mail, or online through the state-approved vendor. The county seat of Moore Haven hosts the only local office that handles these requests inside Glades County borders.
Florida keeps birth records private for 125 years under state law. Only a short list of approved people can buy a certified copy. The rules, fees, and forms below reflect the latest 2026 data from the Florida Department of Health and the Glades County Health Department.
Glades County Birth Records Office Location, Hours, and Phone Number
The Glades County Health Department runs the local vital records counter. The office sits at 1021 Health Park Drive, Moore Haven, FL 33471. The phone number is 863-946-0707. Walk-in service runs Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office closes for state and federal holidays.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Office Name | DOH-Glades, Vital Statistics Section |
| Street Address | 1021 Health Park Drive, Moore Haven, FL 33471 |
| Phone | 863-946-0707 |
| Walk-in Hours | Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
| Main Service | Certified birth certificate copies for any Florida birth |
| Payment Methods | Cash, check, money order, debit, credit (online only) |
Moore Haven sits on the southwestern edge of Lake Okeechobee. The office serves the entire county, which had a 2024 population of about 13,132. The small staff size means phone calls help cut down wait time. Calling ahead at 863-946-0707 lets you confirm service hours, fee total, and document needs before driving in.
Who Can Order a Glades County Birth Certificate in 2026
Florida Statute 382.025 limits who can get a certified copy of a Glades County birth record. The state keeps these records sealed for 125 years from the date of birth. The list of approved applicants includes:
- The person named on the record, if 18 years of age or older
- A parent listed on the original certificate
- A legal guardian with court paperwork that names the registrant
- A current or former spouse with a marriage record or divorce decree
- An adult child, brother, or sister of the person on the record
- A lawyer or licensed private investigator working for one of the people above
- A government agency that needs the record for an official task
People who do not fit this list can still buy an informational copy. An informational copy lists the same facts as a certified copy. The state prints the word “INFORMATIONAL” across the face. Banks, the DMV, and passport offices will not accept an informational copy. Family historians and genealogists often use these copies for research.
Three Ways to Request Glades County Birth Records
The Florida Department of Health offers three paths to get a certified copy of a Glades County birth record. The right path depends on your timeline, location, and comfort with paperwork.
1. Walk-In Request at the Moore Haven Office
Walking in is the fastest path for people who live near Moore Haven. Most in-person requests finish in 15 to 20 minutes. Bring these items to the counter:
- A completed Florida birth certificate application form DH726
- One valid, government-issued photo ID (driver license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
- The $15 fee for the first copy in cash, check, or money order
The clerk looks up the record in the statewide database, prints the certified copy on state security paper with a raised seal, and hands it to you at the counter. If you want more than one copy of the same record, each extra copy adds $7 to the total.
2. Mail Request to the Glades County Office
Mailing your request works for people who live outside Moore Haven or who want to skip the drive. Send a packet that includes:
- A signed DH726 application form
- A clear photocopy of your photo ID (front and back)
- A check or money order for $15 made payable to DOH-Glades
- A self-addressed stamped envelope if you want faster return mail
Mail the packet to 1021 Health Park Drive, Moore Haven, FL 33471. The office processes mail in about two to three weeks. The clerk mails the certified copy back through the U.S. Postal Service. Tracking is not built in. Buying a return receipt from the post office gives you proof of delivery.
3. Online Request Through VitalChek
VitalChek is the only state-approved online vendor for Florida birth records. The platform works around the clock, which helps people who need a Glades County birth record outside of normal office hours. The order steps look like this:
- Visit the VitalChek Florida birth certificate page
- Enter the registrant’s full name, date of birth, and place of birth
- Upload a scan or photo of your photo ID
- Pay the $19 state fee plus the $7 VitalChek service fee with a credit or debit card
- Choose standard mail (5 to 7 business days) or expedited shipping
Online orders cost more than walk-in or mail orders. The added cost covers the vendor service fee and shipping. People who need the record within 24 to 48 hours can pay extra for overnight delivery through VitalChek.
Glades County Birth Certificate Fees in 2026
Fees for Glades County birth records follow the rate set by Florida Statute 382.0255. The state fee stays the same at every county health department. Vendor fees change based on the channel you pick.
| Service Channel | First Copy | Each Extra Copy | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walk-in at Moore Haven office | $15 | $7 | None |
| Mail to Glades County office | $15 | $7 | Postage |
| Mail to state office in Jacksonville | $15 | $7 | Postage both ways |
| Online via VitalChek | $19 + $7 service fee | $19 per copy | Shipping fee |
| Expedited shipping | $19 + $7 service fee | $19 per copy | Overnight fee |
Extra copies of the same record cost less because the state only charges the search and printing fee once. Most people order two or three copies at once to save on repeat processing fees.
Identification Requirements for Glades County Birth Records
The Glades County Health Department checks your ID before releasing any record. The state accepts two main types of identification: primary ID and secondary ID. Primary ID includes a driver license, state-issued photo ID, U.S. passport, military ID, or permanent resident card. The ID must show your full name, photo, and signature.
If you cannot show a primary ID, the office will accept two forms of secondary ID. Secondary ID can include a Social Security card, work ID, school ID, insurance card, or utility bill. The clerk decides if the secondary ID meets state rules for the specific case.
For mail requests, send a clear photocopy of the primary ID. A scanned or photographed ID sent through VitalChek also works. The clerk rejects blurry images or expired IDs. The applicant on the application form must match the name on the ID unless you bring legal paperwork that explains the name change.
Processing Time and Delivery for Glades County Birth Records
Processing time depends on the channel. Walk-in requests finish the same day. Mail requests to the local Glades County office take about 2 to 3 weeks. Mail requests to the state Bureau of Vital Statistics in Jacksonville take 3 to 5 business days plus mail time. VitalChek online orders ship in 5 to 7 business days with standard mail. Expedited shipping cuts the wait to 1 to 2 business days for an added fee.
Mail delivery time changes based on distance from Moore Haven. People in Buckhead Ridge, Palmdale, and Lakeport can expect faster return mail than people in Tampa or Miami. The U.S. Postal Service does not guarantee delivery dates for first-class mail. Buying a USPS Priority Mail stamp or return receipt gives you stronger tracking.
How to Correct an Error on a Glades County Birth Certificate
Errors do happen on birth records. Common mistakes include misspellings, wrong parent names, wrong date of birth, and wrong sex listed. The Florida Department of Health fixes these through a formal amendment process under Florida Statute 382.016.
Small spelling fixes need a short application called the DH435 form. You attach proof of the correct spelling, such as a school record, hospital record, or baptismal record. The Bureau of Vital Statistics in Jacksonville reviews the paperwork. Most simple spelling fixes finish in 4 to 6 weeks.
Larger changes need a court order. Adding a parent, removing a parent, changing a name, or changing a sex marker requires a petition to the court. The court sends a certified order to the Bureau of Vital Statistics. The bureau then issues an amended birth certificate. The Glades County office cannot approve these changes. All amendment work goes through the state office in Jacksonville.
The fee for a correction is $20. You also pay the regular $15 fee for a new certified copy after the change is approved. Many people order two or three copies of the amended record to cover future needs.
Historical and Genealogy Birth Records in Glades County
Glades County was created in 1921. The county split off from DeSoto County. Birth records from 1921 forward exist in the state system. Records older than 125 years move to the Florida State Archives. These older records become public and any person can view them.
Genealogy researchers can use three sources for old Glades County birth records:
- Florida State Archives in Tallahassee for records over 100 years old
- FamilySearch.org, which hosts free indexes of Florida births from 1900 to 1930
- Ancestry.com and MyHeritage for compiled birth record collections
The Glades County Clerk of Court keeps some local birth records for early county history. The clerk’s office sits at 500 Avenue J, Moore Haven, FL 33471. Call 863-946-6010 to check the clerk’s hours and available records. The clerk does not issue certified copies of birth records. The clerk only stores local property, court, and marriage records.
Adoption and Sealed Glades County Birth Records
Adopted children have a sealed original birth record and a new amended birth record. The new record lists the adoptive parents. The original record stays sealed at the state Bureau of Vital Statistics. Florida law allows an adopted adult who is 18 or older to request a non-certified copy of the original record under Florida Statute 382.025(2)(a).
Birth parents and adoptive parents listed on the new record can also request copies of the new record. People who need to prove citizenship for a passport often request both records. The process takes about 4 to 6 weeks through the state office.
Apostille and International Use of Glades County Birth Records
People who need a Glades County birth certificate for a foreign country often need an apostille. An apostille is a state seal that proves the document is real. The Florida Department of State issues apostilles in Tallahassee. The fee is $10 per document. Mail the certified birth certificate and a cover letter to the Bureau of Authentications in Tallahassee. The process takes 5 to 10 business days by mail.
Some countries need a consular report of birth abroad or a different authentication process. The U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. handles those cases. Call 202-485-8000 for federal authentication help.
Glades County Birth Records for Common Legal Tasks
Certified birth certificates serve as proof of identity and age for many tasks. The following list shows the most common uses for a Glades County birth record:
- First-time U.S. passport application (Form DS-11)
- Real ID driver license at the Florida DMV
- Social Security number application for a newborn
- School enrollment for kindergarten and college
- Marriage license application
- Selective Service registration for men aged 18 to 25
- Insurance enrollment and benefits claims
- Immigration paperwork for family-based green card petitions
Each of these tasks needs a certified copy with a raised seal. An informational copy will not work. Order at least two certified copies so you can submit one and keep a backup.
Glades County Vital Records Statistics for 2026
The Florida Department of Health publishes annual vital statistics reports. The 2024 report shows the latest data available before the 2026 publication date. The numbers give a clear picture of birth activity in Glades County.
| Measure | Glades County (2024) | Florida (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Live Births | 87 | 216,260 |
| Birth Rate per 1,000 Residents | 6.6 | 10.1 |
| Teen Birth Rate per 1,000 (Ages 15-19) | 9.4 | 12.3 |
| Low Birth Weight Rate | 8.0% | 8.7% |
| Mother’s Average Age at First Birth | 24.6 | 27.1 |
Glades County records one of the lowest birth counts in Florida. The small count means the local office stays quiet most days. Walk-in service usually moves fast. The 2025 numbers come out in late 2026 on the Florida Department of Health website.
Common Problems With Glades County Birth Records and Solutions
Some requests face delays or denials. The most common issues include:
Name mismatch on the application: The name on the DH726 form must match the photo ID. If your name changed due to marriage, bring the marriage certificate. The clerk adds the new name to the application file.
Lost or stolen ID: Bring a police report for a stolen ID. The clerk can accept a temporary state ID or a sworn affidavit for a lost ID.
Adopted person needs original record: Adopted adults must request the original record through the state office in Jacksonville. The local Glades County office cannot release sealed original records.
Records from before 1921: Glades County did not exist before 1921. Births before 1921 fall under DeSoto County or Lee County records. Order those records from the county where the birth took place.
Record not found in state system: Some older Florida births were never filed in the statewide system. These records sit in local hospital archives. The clerk can guide you to the right hospital records office for paper-based records.
How to Fill Out the DH726 Form for Glades County Birth Records
The DH726 form is the official Florida birth certificate application. The form has four parts that the applicant must complete. Part one asks for the registrant’s full name at birth, date of birth, place of birth, and sex. Part two asks for the parents’ full names, including the mother’s maiden name. Part three asks for the applicant’s name, address, phone, and relationship to the registrant. Part four asks for the applicant’s signature and the date.
Print clearly in blue or black ink. Sign the form in the same way your photo ID is signed. If you make a mistake, draw a single line through the error and write the correction nearby. Do not use white-out. The clerk will reject the form if it has white-out marks.
Contact Information for Glades County Birth Records
Glades County Health Department (Local Office):
- Address: 1021 Health Park Drive, Moore Haven, FL 33471
- Phone: 863-946-0707
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics (State Office):
- Address: PO Box 210, Jacksonville, FL 32231
- Phone: 904-359-6900
- Website: www.floridahealth.gov/certificates-records/birth-certificates
Glades County Clerk of Court (Local Records):
- Address: 500 Avenue J, Moore Haven, FL 33471
- Phone: 863-946-6010
VitalChek (Online Orders):
- Website: www.vitalchek.com
- Phone: 800-255-2414
- Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Tips to Speed Up Your Glades County Birth Record Request
The small Glades County office gives fast service for prepared applicants. The following steps cut your visit time down to a few minutes:
- Print and sign the DH726 form before you arrive
- Bring a primary photo ID with your current name and address
- Bring exact cash or a signed check for the $15 fee
- Know the registrant’s full name, date of birth, and parents’ full names
- Order extra copies of the same record at the same time to save on future fees
Call 863-946-0707 the morning of your visit to confirm the office is open. Hurricanes and tropical storms often close Florida county offices with little notice. The clerk can also confirm if the vital records computer system is running. A system outage forces the office to delay walk-in service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glades County Birth Records
The questions below cover the most common calls and emails the Glades County Health Department receives each week. Each answer reflects the latest 2026 rules and fees set by the Florida Department of Health and the state legislature.
How long does it take to get a Glades County birth certificate in person?
Walk-in service at the Moore Haven office takes about 15 to 20 minutes for most people. The clerk searches the statewide database, confirms your identity, prints the certified copy on state security paper, and hands it to you at the counter. Wait time can stretch to 45 minutes during the lunch hour or right after the office opens. The office opens at 8:00 a.m. and closes at 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. The office is closed on Saturday and Sunday.
Can I get a Glades County birth certificate if I was not born in Glades County?
Yes. Florida runs a statewide system for birth records. Any county health department in Florida can look up a Florida birth record. The Glades County office can pull up a birth record from Miami-Dade, Orange County, or any other Florida county. You must meet the eligibility rules in Florida Statute 382.025. You must also show a valid photo ID and pay the standard $15 fee for the first copy.
What if I was born in Glades County but I now live in another state?
You can order a Glades County birth record by mail or online from anywhere in the United States. The mail packet goes to 1021 Health Park Drive, Moore Haven, FL 33471. The online order goes through VitalChek. Both paths work for out-of-state applicants. The mail route works best for people who do not need the record in a rush. The VitalChek route works best for people who need the record in 5 to 7 business days.
How much does an apostille cost for a Glades County birth certificate?
The Florida Department of State charges $10 per apostille. The state also charges $10 for each additional copy of the apostille. You mail the certified birth certificate, a cover letter, and a check or money order to the Bureau of Authentications in Tallahassee. The bureau mails the apostilled document back in 5 to 10 business days. Some foreign countries also need a federal authentication from the U.S. Department of State, which costs $20 per document.
Can a grandparent order a Glades County birth record for a grandchild?
Florida law does not list grandparents as approved applicants under Florida Statute 382.025. A grandparent can only order the record if the grandparent has legal guardianship with a court order. Without that court order, the clerk must deny the request. The grandparent can still buy an informational copy that shows the same facts but has no legal weight. Banks, the DMV, and passport offices will not accept an informational copy.
What is the difference between a certified copy and an informational copy of a Glades County birth record?
A certified copy has a raised state seal and the signature of the State Registrar. The clerk prints it on state security paper. Banks, government agencies, and employers accept certified copies as legal proof. An informational copy lists the same facts but has the word “INFORMATIONAL” printed across the face. The state prints the informational copy on regular paper with no raised seal. The cost is the same for both copies.
Can I use a Glades County birth certificate to apply for a U.S. passport?
Yes. A certified Glades County birth certificate counts as primary proof of citizenship for a first-time U.S. passport. Bring the certified copy to a passport acceptance facility. The acceptance agent checks the raised seal, the signature, and the security paper. An informational copy will not work. The state also requires the birth certificate to list both parents’ full names for passport use.