Order official Colorado Birth Certificates and Vital Records online

A birth certificate is an essential document that serves as official proof of your birth, identity, and citizenship. It is often required for various purposes such as applying for a passport, enrolling in school, obtaining a driver's license, or securing employment. Knowing how to obtain a birth certificate can help ensure you have this vital record on hand when you need it most.

Who Can Request a Birth Certificate?

The state of Colorado restricts access to birth certificates to protect individuals' privacy. The following groups are eligible to request a Colorado birth certificate:

• • The person named on the certificate (if over 18 years old);
• • Immediate family members (e.g., parents, siblings, spouse, grandparents);
• • Legal representatives or legal guardians;
• • Authorized government agencies or departments.

What Documents Are Required?

To apply for a Colorado birth certificate, you must provide certain documents to verify your identity and relationship to the person named on the certificate:

• • A completed application form (which can be downloaded from the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment [CDPHE] Vital Records website);
• • A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport);
• • Proof of relationship, if applicable (e.g., a birth certificate for parents, court documents for legal guardians).

For downloadable forms and detailed instructions, visit the CDPHE Vital Records page.

How to Obtain a Colorado Birth Certificate

You can obtain a Colorado birth certificate through several methods:

By Mail

Mail a completed application form along with the required documents and payment to:

Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment Vital Records Section
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80246

In Person

Visit the CDPHE office at the address above. Bring your completed application form, required documents, and payment. This method can sometimes offer quicker processing times.

Online

You can order a birth certificate online through trusted third-party services like VitalChek. Visit VitalChek to begin your application process online. This option also provides expedited processing.

For a smooth application process, ensure all your documents are complete and accurate before submission.

How Much Does a Birth Certificate Cost?

The cost of obtaining a Colorado birth certificate is as follows:

• • First certified copy: $20.00;
• • Additional copies: $13.00 each if ordered at the same time.

Expedited services may incur additional fees. Check the CDPHE website or VitalChek page for specifics.

Processing Time

Processing time varies depending on the method chosen:

• • By Mail: typically 3-4 weeks;
• • In Person: same day service if all documents are in order;
• • Online: expedited processing options may deliver within a few days.

Obtaining a Colorado birth certificate is a straightforward process when you follow the correct steps and provide the required documentation. Ensuring accuracy and completeness in your application will help avoid delays. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to contact the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment directly for help.

If the event was recorded locally or if you need immediate access to detailed records, it is preferable to contact your county vital records office directly. Find the contact details of your local county vital records office here.