How to Replace Your Birth Certificate

If you've lost or misplaced your birth certificate, getting a replacement is just a matter of contacting the state of your birth. Each state keeps copies of births, deaths, marriages and divorces in its vital records department. Some locations like New York City have a vital records department separate from the state department.

Instructions

1. Go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website and click on the Vital Records link.

2. Click on the state, territory or city of your birth. The birth records are on the left side of the page.

3. Follow the directions to write to the Vital Statistics office in your birthplace. Each place has its own standards, but most will require proof of identification, like a copy of a driver's license, and a fee. Include the check or money order in the written request. Each place also lists the physical office that handles the request. If you live in the area, you can get the copy in person if you take the required material to that office.

References

• Centers for Disease Control