Vital Records & Certificates in Savannah, GeorgiaChatham County Probate Court

Savannah’s unique position as a historic port city, military hub, and international destination creates diverse needs for vital records. From cruise passengers requiring last-minute passport documentation to SCAD students pursuing international programs, from military families transferring to Hunter Army Airfield to retirees establishing coastal residency, certified documents facilitate life transitions in this dynamic Southern metropolis. The city’s booming film industry, growing tech sector, and thriving tourism economy all require proper documentation for employment verification and business licensing.

Savannah residents obtain birth certificates through the Chatham County Probate Court at 133 Montgomery St, Suite 509, located in the downtown government complex near the historic district. Newborns delivered at Memorial Health University Medical Center, St. Joseph’s/Candler Hospital, or other regional facilities have their records processed through this centralized county office. The city’s growing population of young professionals and military families stationed at nearby Hunter Army Airfield frequently require certified birth documentation for job transfers, school enrollment, and federal employment clearances. Savannah’s role as a major port city means international travel documentation is commonly needed, making certified birth certificates essential for passport applications. The probate court’s experienced staff efficiently handles the high volume of requests from this diverse metropolitan area of over 400,000 residents.

Savannah’s romantic reputation draws couples from worldwide to exchange vows in venues like the elegant Mansion on Forsyth Park, the historic Telfair Academy, intimate ceremonies in Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, or garden weddings at the stunning Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens. Marriage licenses are obtained from the Chatham County Probate Court downtown, with Georgia’s simple requirements making destination weddings popular year-round. The city’s film industry presence and tourism economy create steady demand for wedding services, while the port city’s international connections bring couples seeking authentic Southern charm. Spring and fall wedding seasons see particularly high volumes at the probate court, with summer ceremonies popular despite the coastal humidity.

Death certificates for Savannah residents are processed through Chatham County Probate Court, essential for settling estates in this city with significant historical property values and complex family legacies. The metropolitan area’s large retiree population and military veteran community create regular demand for death certificate services. Multiple copies are often required for Social Security administration, Veterans Affairs benefits, insurance claims, and the intricate estate processes involving Savannah’s valuable historic properties and waterfront real estate.

Savannah residents access divorce decree copies through the Chatham County Superior Court system, with records maintained at the courthouse complex downtown. The city’s transient military population and growing professional workforce often require divorce documentation for name changes, remarriage applications, and federal employment background checks. High-value property settlements involving historic homes, waterfront properties, and business interests in the tourism industry frequently require multiple certified copies for asset division and financial institution updates throughout the coastal Georgia region.

Chatham County Probate Court operates at 133 Montgomery St, Suite 509, in downtown Savannah’s government building complex, just blocks from the historic district. Office hours run Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with occasional extended hours during busy periods. Downtown parking includes metered street spaces along Montgomery Street and Bull Street, plus several city parking garages within walking distance. The Bryan Street and State Street garages offer convenient access to the courthouse. Payment options include cash, checks, money orders, and major credit cards. During tourist season and special events like St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, allow extra time for downtown traffic and parking. The office processes most requests immediately for in-person visits, though complex searches may require return visits.

From I-16, take Exit 167A toward Historic District. Follow Montgomery Street to the government complex between State and Bryan Streets, near Ellis Square.