To get a birth certificate, you need to contact the vital records office of the state or territory where you were born. Most states allow you to order a certified copy of your birth certificate online, by mail, or in person. You will need to know the city and county of your birth and provide identification such as a driver's license or passport. Some states also offer third-party services like VitalChek for convenient online ordering and shipping. Specific details and processes vary by location. For example:
- New York has the Department of Health for upstate births and New York City Department of Health for births in the five boroughs.
- Illinois offers birth certificates through its Department of Public Health and local county clerks.
- Washington, D.C. has restrictions on who can order certificates and requires proof of relationship or authorization.
- VitalChek partners with many government agencies nationwide to facilitate online orders and secure processing.
Generally, you need to fill out an application form, provide valid ID, pay a fee (usually around $10 to $15), and submit your request either online, by mail, or in person depending on the state.
