Your birth certificate is one of yourfundamental identifying documents. It's used as a reference point for acquiring many other forms of ID. But sometimes—whether due to a move, a natural disaster, or just a bad memory—your birth certificate may get lost over the years.This guide will help you learn what to use your birth certificate for and how to receive a legal copy of the document.What Is on a Birth Certificate?Most of the time, your birth certificate is originally created at the hospital, shortly after you're born. U.S.-Born CitizensObtaining a copy of your birth certificate is fairly easy for citizens born in the United States.First, locate thein the state where you were born. There, you should be able to find your state's specific process on how to get the document, including instructions and information on any applicable fees.Citizens Born Abroad—Non-MilitaryIf you were born in another country to American parents, you should have aConsular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) issued in your name. This document is created when your parents report your birth to the nearest U.S.
Welcome to the Division of Vital Records. We receive an average of 30,000 calls a month to the Vital Records Information Line. In addition, 9,000 people stop by our office each month requesting certified copies of birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates.