Begin with USAGov or the CDC directory, open the official jurisdiction page, and use only the ordering options that government office identifies.
1. Determine where the birth was registered
Identify the state, territory, Washington, D.C., or separate reporting area where the birth occurred. The current residence of the person on the record does not control. If the birth occurred abroad to a U.S. citizen parent, review the Department of State’s CRBA process instead.
2. Locate the official record custodian
Use the CDC directory to find the state or territory information, then confirm whether the record is issued by a central vital-records office, local registrar, city, county, parish, borough, or municipality. Follow any special instructions for the year and place of birth.
3. Confirm the required copy type
Ask the organization receiving the document what it will accept. A passport application, REAL ID transaction, school enrollment, benefit claim, court case, genealogy request, or foreign use may require different details. Select a certified copy and the appropriate form or content when the issuing office offers options.
4. Confirm that you may request the record
Review eligibility rules for the person named on the record, a parent, child, spouse, legal representative, guardian, attorney, or other requester. Gather proof of relationship or authority if required. Do not misstate the relationship or purpose.
5. Complete the application accurately
- Full name on the birth record and any known variations.
- Date and place of birth, including city or town and county or equivalent.
- Hospital or facility, if known and requested.
- Parents’ full names, including names before marriage when requested.
- Purpose of the request and your relationship to the person.
- Your mailing address, phone number, email, and signature.
6. Meet the identity requirement
Provide the exact identification or alternative evidence listed by the issuing office. A jurisdiction may require a copy of government photo ID, notarization, multiple supporting records, a sworn statement, or documentation from a qualifying relative. Protect sensitive information and submit it only through the official channel.
7. Choose online, mail, or in-person service
- Online: verify that the link comes from the government office and note vendor, shipping, and expedited fees.
- Mail: use the current form and address, include only accepted payment, and use trackable delivery when appropriate.
- In person: check appointment, ID, payment, office-hours, and same-day service rules before traveling.
8. Pay the current amount
Fees can differ by copy type, search period, number of copies, method, and delivery speed. Verify the amount on the official jurisdiction page. Do not send cash unless the office expressly instructs you to do so.
9. Save proof and monitor delivery
Keep the application, order number, receipt, tracking information, and any correspondence. Use the official status process if available. Do not submit duplicate orders unless the office advises you to do so.
10. Inspect the certificate when it arrives
Confirm the name, birth date, place, parent information, certification, seal, and other required elements. If something is wrong, contact the issuing office about amendment. Do not alter, laminate, or mark an official copy when the receiving agency requires an unaltered document.
Official sources
- USAGov — Birth certificate requests
- CDC — Where to write for vital records
- CDC — Application information