A birth certificate is a document that gives the particulars of a birth. State or local offices of vital records keep the originals of all birth certificates. If you need to replace a damaged or lost birth certificate, you must obtain a certified copy from the office of vital records for the area where the birth took place. You can get birth certificates for yourself, your children or parents, your spouse and certain other family members. In general, the only other people who can obtain a person's birth certificate are legal representatives.
Step 1
Obtain an application from the state or local office of vital records for the place where the birth occurred. Applications for replacement birth certificates are usually available online. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) maintains an online list of contact information for all vital records agencies.
Step 2
Provide as much information about the birth as you can. On the application you will be asked for the name of the person whose birth certificate you need and the parents' names. Include the date and place of birth. It helps the records search if you can also give the name of the hospital where the birth took place.
Step 3
Include your name, mailing address and contact information. If the birth certificate is for someone other than yourself, you must state your relationship to the person and the reason you are ordering a copy of the birth certificate. Attach a photocopy of a valid photo ID of yourself such as a driver's license, military ID or passport.
Step 4
Submit your application for a replacement copy of the birth certificate. If you are near the office of vital records, the fastest way to get the copy is to appear in person. Otherwise, the usual procedure is to mail the application to the address given. You will need to enclose a check or money order for the required fee. Processing time varies, but you should allow six weeks unless otherwise stated.
Tips and Warnings
- Expedite the process of replacing a damaged birth certificate by using an online service. The most widely used service is Vitalchek.com. You can link directly to their website from the websites of many offices of vital records. You will need all of the same information. You have to pay an additional fee and you will need a valid credit or debit card. However, you can usually get the birth certificate in a couple of weeks.
Things You'll Need
- Valid photo ID
