As Limestone County’s largest city and home to Athens State University, Athens residents frequently need vital certificates for academic enrollment, professional licensing, and employment with area defense contractors. The city’s growing aerospace and technology sectors require security clearances that demand certified documentation. Additionally, Athens’ family-oriented community creates steady demand for birth certificates for youth sports, school transfers, and passport applications for educational travel.
Vital Records & Certificates in Athens, AlabamaLimestone County Court House
Get birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, and divorce records from the Limestone County Court House. We also offer expedited passport services for Athens residents with 3-day processing.
❓ Why You Need These Certificates
🛂 Need This Certificate for a Passport?
Most Athens residents need their birth or marriage certificate for passport applications. Let us handle both together in one process.
Birth Certificates in Athens
Athens residents obtain birth certificates from the Limestone County Court House located at 200 W Washington Street in downtown Athens. Babies born at Athens-Limestone Hospital on West Market Street or Huntsville Hospital can have their certificates processed directly at the county courthouse. As the county seat, Athens houses the official vital records office, making it convenient for local families to obtain these essential documents. Limestone County processes birth certificates for $15 per copy, with same-day service available for walk-in requests during regular business hours. The courthouse staff is familiar with requirements for Athens State University student enrollment, local school district registration, and the security clearance documentation often needed by residents working in Huntsville’s defense and aerospace industries.
Requirements
Valid government ID, payment, proof of relationship to person named on certificate
Who Can Request
The person named on the certificate, their parent/legal guardian, spouse, child, grandparent, sibling, or authorized legal representative with proper documentation.
Processing Time
Common Uses
- ✓ Passport applications
- ✓ Driver’s license/State ID
- ✓ Social Security card
Marriage Licenses in Athens
Couples choosing Athens for their weddings can obtain marriage licenses at the Limestone County Courthouse on Washington Street. Popular venues include the historic Athens State University campus, elegant ceremonies at the Donnell House, and outdoor celebrations at Big Spring Memorial Park with its beautiful natural setting. Alabama requires no waiting period, allowing couples to marry immediately after receiving their license. The probate office processes marriage licenses Monday through Friday for $70, including the ceremony fee. Many couples appreciate Athens’ romantic small-town atmosphere and the convenience of having the courthouse located in the heart of the historic downtown district.
Requirements
Both parties present with valid ID, certified copies of divorce decrees if previously married
Popular Wedding Venues
Waiting Period
For Passport Name Change
Need to update your passport with your new married name? We can help expedite the process.
Update Passport with New Name →Death Certificates in Athens
Death certificates for Athens residents are issued by the Limestone County Court House vital records office. These documents are frequently needed for insurance settlements, Veterans Administration benefits for the area’s military retirees, and estate proceedings. The county charges $15 per certified copy and can process requests the same day for deaths that occurred within Limestone County. Staff can assist with expedited processing for urgent needs such as Social Security claims or out-of-state property transfers.
Requirements
Valid ID, proof of relationship or legal authority
Who Can Request
Spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, legal representative of the estate, funeral director, or anyone with a documented legal or personal interest.
Processing Time
Special Instructions
Divorce Decrees in Athens
Divorce records for Athens residents are maintained at the Limestone County Circuit Clerk’s office in the courthouse on Washington Street. Certified copies are available for $1 per page plus a $5 processing fee. These documents are essential for remarriage, property transfers, and updating legal documents. The circuit clerk’s office maintains comprehensive records dating back decades and can assist with locating case numbers if needed.
Requirements
Valid ID, case number helpful
Processing Time
Special Notes
📄 Reverting to maiden name?
You’ll need your divorce decree to update your passport with your previous name.
Name Change Process →How to Order in Athens
Visit the Limestone County Court House at 200 W Washington Street in downtown Athens, conveniently located near the historic courthouse square. The vital records office operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, closing for lunch from 12:00-1:00 PM. Ample free parking is available around the courthouse square and on nearby streets. The county accepts cash, checks, and money orders – credit cards are not accepted. Walk-in service is available, though calling ahead can help confirm specific requirements for your request. The courthouse is easily accessible from Highway 72, US 31, and Interstate 65.
In Person
⏱️ Same Day
By Mail
⏱️ 2-3 Weeks
Online
⏱️ 1-2 Weeks
🏛️ Limestone County Court House
Address
200 W Washington St, Athens, AL 35611, United States
Phone
Website
Office Hours
Get Directions
The Limestone County Courthouse is located on Washington Street in downtown Athens, just off Highway 72 (Market Street). Free parking is available around the courthouse square.
⚖️ Government vs. Expedited Service
Choose the option that best fits your timeline
| Feature | Limestone County Clerk (Government Service) | PassportsAndVisas.com (Expedited Service) |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Time | Same day (in-person) 2-3 weeks (mail/online) | 3 days guaranteed |
| Certificate + Passport | ✗ Separate processes | ✓ One-stop service |
| Personal Account Manager | ✗ Not available | ✓ Dedicated support |
| Error Checking | ✗ Your responsibility | ✓ Expert review |
| Tracking | ✗ No tracking | ✓ Real-time updates |
Need to Renew Your Passport?
Got your marriage certificate for name change? Complete your passport renewal in minutes online. We serve Athens residents with 3-day expedited service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about certificates in Athens, Alabama
Where do I park at the Athens courthouse for vital records?
▼Can I get same-day service for birth certificates at the Athens courthouse?
▼What are the courthouse hours for vital records in Athens?
▼Do Athens State University students get any discounts on vital records?
▼Can I get expedited service for defense contractor security clearance applications?
▼What payment methods are accepted at the Limestone County courthouse?
▼How do I get to the Athens courthouse from Huntsville?
▼Can I request birth certificates for children born at Athens-Limestone Hospital?
▼Are there any fees for amendments to birth certificates in Limestone County?
▼What information do I need to provide for a death certificate request?
▼Ready to Get Your Certificate & Passport?
Whether you need just a certificate or a complete passport service, we’re here to help Athens residents get what they need quickly and easily.
📋 Just need the county clerk office?
🏛️ Visit Limestone County Clerk WebsiteHours: Monday-Friday 8AM-8PM EST, Saturday 10AM-6PM EST
Emergency Service: Available 24/7 for urgent passport needs