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How to Obtain a Maryland Birth Certificate

The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Division of Vital Records in Maryland maintains all birth certificates from 1910 to the present. The fee for birth certificates varies based on how the order is placed. An applicant requesting a birth certificate must be the parent or guardian, a representative of the individual or the individual himself. This office also handles corrections to old certificates and creating new birth certificates.

Things You'll Need

  • Valid photo identification
  • Pay stub
  • Bank statements
  • Utility bill
  • Proof of guardianship
  • Proof of representation
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Instructions

  1. In-Person

    • 1

      Fill out the application.

    • 2

      Provide valid photo identification. If not you must provide 2 alternative documents of different types. A utility bill and pay stub are acceptable documents as long as one of the documents contains the applicant's current address.

    • 3

      Pay the $12 fee for the birth certificate.

    • 4

      You will receive your birth certificate the same day.

    Online

    • 5

      Visit the vitalchek website.

    • 6

      Select Birth Certificates as the document being requested.

    • 7

      Proceed through the steps on their website. You will be asked questions about your name, date of birth, parents' names and location of birth.

    • 8

      Pay the fee for the birth certificate and the extra fee for using the service.

    • 9

      Await the arrival of the birth certificate. Processing time is eight to 10 weeks.

    By Mail

    • 10

      Visit the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Vital Statistics Administration website.

    • 11

      Download the application for a birth certificate. The application can be downloaded in word or in PDF form.

    • 12

      Gather photocopies of the required identification. A copy of a valid photo identification, utility bill or pay stub, income tax return or document with current address may be used.

    • 13

      Mail the application, identification and fee to the Division of Vital Records. The fee for a birth certificate is $12. To expedite the order include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

    • 14

      Await the arrival of the birth certificate. Processing and delivery time is five business days.

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