Can i get a birth certificate mailed to me
Yes, you can request a birth certificate to be mailed to you from the state or county where the birth occurred. Here are the general steps to follow:
- Determine which state or county issued the birth certificate: You can find this information on the birth certificate or by contacting the hospital or healthcare provider where the birth took place.
- Gather required information: You'll need to provide the following information to obtain a birth certificate:
- Full name of the person whose birth certificate you're requesting
- Date of birth
- Place of birth (city, county, and state)
- Mother's maiden name (if applicable)
- Father's name (if applicable)
- Your relationship to the person whose birth certificate you're requesting (e.g., parent, guardian, or authorized representative)
- Choose the type of birth certificate you need: There are usually two types of birth certificates:
- Long-form birth certificate: This is the original birth certificate issued at the time of birth, which typically includes more information, such as the parents' names and addresses.
- Certified copy of birth certificate: This is a photocopy of the original birth certificate, which is certified by the state or county as a true copy.
- Contact the state or county vital records office: You can find the contact information for the state or county vital records office where the birth occurred by:
- Visiting the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) website and searching for the state or county vital records office
- Searching online for "vital records [state or county name]"
- Contacting the state or county government's website or phone number
- Request the birth certificate: You can usually request a birth certificate online, by phone, or by mail. Be prepared to provide the required information and pay any applicable fees.
- Wait for the birth certificate to be mailed: The processing time for a birth certificate can vary depending on the state or county, but it's usually a few weeks to a few months.
Fees and processing times:
- Fees: The cost of a birth certificate varies by state or county, but it's usually around $10 to $30.
- Processing time: The processing time can vary from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the state or county.
Tips:
- Make sure to request the correct type of birth certificate (long-form or certified copy) and provide all required information to avoid delays.
- If you're requesting a birth certificate for someone else, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of identity or authorization.
- Some states or counties may have specific requirements or restrictions for obtaining a birth certificate, so be sure to check their website or contact them directly for more information.