If your original birth certificate is lost, stolen or damaged, you may need to get a new one. While a birth certificate is not usually necessary in day-to-day life, you may find it helpful in situations where you need to prove your identity, such as obtaining a passport or driver's license. Fortunately, obtaining a copy of your birth certificate is a fairly simple process in most states. It can take several months, however, so start early if you know you will need a copy of your birth certificate in the future.
Instructions
1. Fill out the "Application for Certified Copy of Birth Record" (available at cdc.gov/nchs/w2w.htm) or similar document for your state. While the name of this document varies from state to state, its purpose is to establish your relationship to the person whose birth certificate you want to obtain and provide enough information about this person to locate his birth certificate. Information needed on this form may include city of birth, county of birth, gender, father's name and mother's name.
2. Fill out a sworn statement that includes your name, the name of the person listed on the birth certificate, your relation to the person listed on the birth certificate and a declaration that you are eligible to receive a copy of the birth certificate.
3. Bring your sworn statement to a notary public. She will acknowledge that you personally appeared before her and that you provided sufficient evidence to her that you are who you claim to be. She will then sign a statement to this effect.
4. Mail the completed sworn statement and statement by the notary public to the Office of Vital Records in your state, along with a check or money order to cover the fee for the birth certificate. This fee varies by state.
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