There are a variety of ways you may obtain a copy of your birth certificate depending on your location. Some areas require people to file with a central office of vital records, while others may be able to go to the place of birth and file for one there. Some jurisdiction even allow people to file for a copy online or by phone. There is usually a fee for these copies and any additional ones needed.
In the United States and in many other nations, there are registrar offices in charge of issuing and maintaining records. This is the location you would contact to get a copy of your birth certificate in most situations. Certain information may be needed, such as the place of birth, both parents’ names, and the date of birth. If the birth was never registered, this information may not be available. It is possible to register a birth years after it occurred by providing as much information as possible.
There are normally fees charged before you can get a copy of your birth certificate. These will vary based on the location. There are also different types of copies available. Full copies will be signed and sealed by a registrar and will feature the state or national emblem. Shorter versions are also available in some locations and only include minimal information such as name and date of birth.
For these reasons, be sure to specify the type of copy you need. You may not have to visit the offices directly, as many of them allow online requests or telephone requests. These would require you to use a debit or credit card to pay any fees, and then a copy of your birth certificate would be mailed to your home. Your local offices can give you more information about the details. If you need a copy of your birth certificate for a particular reason, such as obtaining a passport or government funding, be sure to find out which type you will need.
In the United States, information about getting a copy of your birth certificate can be found on the Centers for Disease Control website. Other countries have different offices, but information can often be found by speaking with officials at your place of birth. Each location has its own rules, fees, and regulations.
