How to Obtain a Child's Birth Certificate for a Home Birth

Apply for your newborn's birth certificate as soon as possible.

Many people feel more comfortable having a home birth, rather than a birth in a hospital. One of the benefits of a hospital birth is that it makes obtaining a birth certificate easy. The hospital usually takes care of everything for you. Obtaining a birth certificate for a home birth is more complicated, but you can do it if you check with your state's vital records department to determine the exact requirements.

Instructions

1. Contact your state's office of vital records for state-specific instructions. While general guidelines exist, the process of obtaining a birth certificate for a home birth may vary. (See Resources)

2. Obtain the proper form required by your state and fill it out completely. Furnish the state-specific requirements, such as a written statement from your doctor. You will also need a written statement from a witness to the home birth, proof of identification, and proof of residency.

3. Have the forms notarized and send in the birth certificate application. The form must be sent to your state's vital record department. Make sure to include the fee for processing the application, generally ranging from $12 to $30.

Tips & Warnings

• If you used a licensed midwife for home birth, the requirements may be less stringent.

References

• State of Arizona

Resources

• State-By-State Vital Records Information