How to Get a Copy of a MD Birth Certificate

Getting a certified copy of a Maryland birth certificate is something that can be done online, by mail or at the Division of Vital Records in Baltimore. In Maryland, for births in the past 100 years, only someone named on the certificate--child, mother or father--can request a certified copy from the state Division of Vital Records. Records older than 100 years are accessible through the Maryland archives by anyone.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Ordering a MD Birth Certificate Online

1. Go to the VitalCheck website and click the "Birth Certificate" tab.

2. Enter the requested information, including state of birth (Maryland), city, county, date of birth and reason for ordering.

3. Complete the birth certificate order form, on which you will have to enter the names of those on the certificate, including mother, child and father (if named).

4. Verify that all information is correct as entered and fix any errors before submitting the online order form.

5. Enter payment and shipping preferences. You can use a credit card or debit card for instant payment online. The basic service charge in addition to Maryland's birth certificate record fee of $12 is about $6, but it goes up for expedited shipping options.

Get a Maryland Birth Certificate in Person

6. Bring a current government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport, to get your certified birth certificate. If you don't have a valid photo ID, you can bring any two of the following in your name: a recent pay stub, your car registration, a bank account statement in your name, a lease agreement or mortgage statement, utility bill or copy of your tax return or W-2 form.

7. Travel to the Division of Vital Records in Baltimore or, outside of Baltimore and Montgomery County, your local Maryland health department office.

8. Inquire at the reception desk about getting a copy of the birth certificate in question. You will be given a short form to fill out.

9. Present your request, identification and payment to the employee, who will give you a certified copy of the record.

Order a MD Birth Certificate by Mail

10. Download and print the application for a copy of a birth certificate form from the Maryland Vital Statistics Administration website (link under Resources, below) and fill out the form completely and accurately.

11. Make a photocopy of your government-issued photo identification, such as your driver's license or passport.

12. Mail the application, photocopies of required identification, stated fee and a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Division of Vital Records, P.O. Box 68760, Baltimore, MD 21215-0036.

13. Expect a wait of about 10 to 20 days to receive your certified copy of the Maryland birth certificate by mail.

Tips & Warnings

• If there was a change made to the birth certificate due to adoption or other circumstances, note that in the proper place on the application form.

Resources

• Application for MD Birth Certificate

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