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How to get another birth certificate in the US

Getting a birth certificate online for free is not currently possible. You can apply for a replacement by completing an online application form.

Estados UnidosUpdate:
How to get another birth certificate in the US
KEVIN LAMARQUEREUTERS

Your birth certificate is one of the most important legal documents you will have possession of in your entire lifetime. There are many situations that you will need to use your original birth certificate or a certified copy of it in order to prove your identity and date of birth. Important documents and IDs should be kept in a safe place, but losing them is more common than one might think.

If you’ve lost your birth certificate there are easy steps to follow to retrieve a new certified copy. Getting a replacement birth certificate can be an uncomplicated process as long as you have the correct documentation available to you. A lost birth certificate can be a problem if you happen to be in the process of applying for a US passport, joining the military, applying for certain benefits and enrolling in school. You’ll also need your birth certificate for driver’s licenses, marriage licenses and passports too.

How do you get a certified copy of a birth certificate?

To order birth certificates online all you’ll need is the pertinent information for the certificate of the person for whom you’re looking to order a certified copy. You’ll be prompted to enter dates, reason or need for the certificate, as well as your own personal information like relation to the person on the certificate. Your relation to the person named on the certificate is a primary factor on whether you have the authority to purchase a copy of their certificate. The process to replace lost birth certificates has been streamlined to ensure you are who you say you are.

Identify the state where the person was born. The vital records or vital statistics department for the state you live in will have the birth certificate on file. If not you can find contact information for the state's vital records department through an internet search or at your local library.

Once you have gathered everything mentioned before, contact the appropriate state vital records department to learn about any fees or additional requirements necessary to get a copy of the certificate.

When you are done you should receive a copy of the birth certificate by mail, delivery time vary by state but most of them offer expedited services if you need the document quickly.