How to get a certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate

Learn how to get a birth certificate replacement if you were born inside or outside the U.S. And find out how to get a replacement if all your other forms of ID have been lost.

Born in the U.S.: how to get a certified copy of your birth certificate

• How to order a certified copy of your birth certificate online, by mail, or in person
• How to get a copy fast
• The cost for each certified copy

You will need to know the city and county where you were born.

U.S. citizen born abroad: how to get a copy of your birth certificate or report

The U.S. embassy or consulate in your birth country issued a consular report of birth abroad (CRBA) if your parents reported your birth to them. The CRBA serves the same purpose as a U.S. birth certificate. See how to replace a consular report of birth abroad.

Lost all your IDs: how to get a copy of your birth certificate

Check with your birth state’s vital records office for what it requires. Most states have another way to verify your identification, such as:

• Your sworn statement of identity
• A notarized letter and a copy of the photo ID from the mother or father listed on your birth certificate

If you cannot get a copy of your birth certificate, try to replace your driver's license first.