How to Get a Replacement Birth Certificate

Birth certificates are important documents used as a form of identification in many different areas of life in the United States. Getting a passport, a social security card and some forms of employment require proof in the form of a birth certificate to show citizenship, age and place of birth. When a birth certificate becomes lost, stolen or destroyed, it's important to get a replacement birth certificate as soon as possible, as copied certificates are not considered legal identification unless they are issued by the Department of Vital Statistics.

Instructions

1. Know the correct government agency to contact regarding a replacement birth certificate. Records are kept by the Department of Vital Statistics in the state where the birth certificate was first issued. The federal government does not handle any form of vital statistics. This includes birth certificates, marriage certificates and death certificates. All information and copies are acquired through state agencies.

2. Find a local Department of Vital Statistics agency. Most vital statistics offices can be found through a local Department of Health or county courthouse. Each state has rules and regulations on how you can obtain a replacement birth certificate. Speak with a state employee at the agency or find the instructions on the Vital Statistics website of the state where the birth certificate was recorded.

3. Go to the Vital Statistics office in person. If you live in the area where the birth certificate was issued, requesting a replacement birth certificate in person is the fastest way to get a new copy. Bring identification to the office and be prepared to answer a questionnaire about how you are related to the person on the birth certificate.

4. Write the Office of Vital Records with a birth certificate request. You will be required to fill out and sign an affidavit and application declaring who you are and why you are requesting the certificate. The applications can be downloaded at most state websites or you can ask to have one mailed to you.

5. Mail your completed application with the proper payment. When you apply for and are issued a replacement birth certificate, you will be charged a fee. The fee varies from state to state and is usually in the $10 to $20 range. Checks and money orders are acceptable forms of payment.

6. Know that only certain people can be given a replacement birth certificate. Except under very special circumstances, a birth certificate is only issued to the person named on the certificate or to his immediate family.

Tips & Warnings

• Most states keep birth records up to a certain date. For earlier birth certificates, you may have to contact the county recorder's office where the birth happened.

• Never send cash in the mail when sending in your birth certificate application.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Vital Statistic Departments by State