You may obtain a copy of your son's birth certificate through your state's Office of Vital Statistics, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Birth certificates are closed records so you must have authorization to obtain it. You must also have proper identification. An authorized person is a parent, grandparent, legal guardian or legal representative, spouse, sibling or the person whose name is on the birth certificate. Copies of your son's birth certificate are available by mailing in an application to the office of vital statistics or by visiting the office in person.
Step 1
Contact the vital statistics office in your state. Fill out the required application, which may include a sworn statement depending on your state. Include your son's full birth name as it appears on the birth certificate. Specify his gender where indicated on the application.
Step 2
Fill out the parents' information. Put both parents' names on the application; include the mother's maiden name. Include the place of birth and the name of the hospital along with the city, state, county and ZIP code.
Step 3
Explain why you are requesting your son's birth certificate. State that you are his mother or father, and briefly say why you are requesting a copy. Include your daytime area code and phone number with the request. Make sure your return address and signature are included.
Step 4
Include a valid form of identification and your required payment. Make a copy of your state identification and send it in with your application. Send a check or money order for the required fee. Wait three to four weeks for your son's birth to get your son's birth certificate in the mail. Call the office of vital statistics if you have not received your son's birth certificate copy after six weeks.
Step 5
Call the office of vital statistics in your state and request the physical address if you want to apply for your son's birth certificate in person. Bring a photo identification and the required fee. Allow enough time to fill out the application and provide all the necessary information.
Tips and Warnings
- Call the office of vital statistics to make sure you have to correct address. Keep copies of everything you send in the mail.
Things You'll Need
- Computer
- Pen
- Paper
- Envelope
- Stamp
