How To Get a Copy Of a Birth Certificate

  • December 7, 2009
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If you need a copy of your birth certificate or someone else’s, these steps will help you get the record you need.

You Will Need

  • Basic information on the person whose birth certificate you need
  • Internet or library access (optional)
How To Get a Copy Of a Birth Certificate: Identify the state where the person was born

Step 1: Identify the state where the person was born

Identify the state in which the person was born. The vital records or vital statistics department for that state will have the birth certificate on file.

Find contact information for the state’s vital records department through an internet search or at your local library.

How To Get a Copy Of a Birth Certificate: Gather identifying information

Step 2: Gather identifying information

Gather important identifying information about the person, such as their full name, sex, date and place of birth, and parents’ names.

How To Get a Copy Of a Birth Certificate: Learn about state requirements

Step 3: Learn about state requirements

Contact the appropriate state vital records department to learn about any fees or additional requirements necessary to get a copy of the certificate.

Make sure that you are legally allowed to get a copy of the birth certificate. Requirements vary by state, but most require you to be a close relative.

How To Get a Copy Of a Birth Certificate: Send the necessary information

Step 4: Send the necessary information

Send the necessary information along with any required fees to the state vital records department. Include your full name, address, and phone number. If you’re requesting someone else’s birth certificate, you must state your relationship to the person.

How To Get a Copy Of a Birth Certificate: Receive a certified copy of the birth certificate

Step 5: Receive a certified copy of the birth certificate

Receive a certified copy of the birth certificate by mail. Delivery time will vary by state, but most states offer an expedited service if you need the birth certificate quickly.

Over 4.2 million births were registered in the United States in 2006 – up three percent from the year before.

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Comments (1)

Tech12

Very helpful. Thank you for doing the script! Tech12

over 2 years ago by Tech12

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