Order official Maryland Birth Certificates and Vital Records online

A birth certificate is a crucial document that serves as proof of identity, age, and citizenship. It is frequently required for various purposes, including applying for a passport, enrolling in school, obtaining a driver's license, and accessing government services. Having an accurate and up-to-date birth certificate is essential for smooth transactions and verification processes throughout one's life.

Who Can Request a Birth Certificate?

In Maryland, birth certificates can be requested by:

• • The person named on the certificate provided they are at least 18 years old;
• • A parent or guardian of the person named on the certificate;
• • A representative with signed authorization from the person named on the certificate or a parent/guardian;
• • Legal representatives of the person named on the certificate.

What Documents Are Required?

To apply for a Maryland birth certificate, the following documents are usually required:

• • A completed application form;
• • Valid photo identification (e.g., driver’s license, state-issued ID, passport);
• • Proof of relationship if the requestor is not the person named on the birth certificate (e.g., parent’s ID, guardianship papers).

You can download the application form from the official Maryland Department of Health website. Follow the instructions provided for filling out the form accurately.

How to Obtain a Maryland Birth Certificate

By Mail

Mail the completed application form, required documents, and payment to:

Division of Vital Records
6764-B Reisterstown Road,
Reisterstown Road Plaza,
Baltimore, MD 21215

Ensure you use a secure mailing method to protect your personal information.

In Person

You can visit the Division of Vital Records office at the address mentioned above. Make sure to bring all the required documents. It’s advisable to check their operating hours and any COVID-19 guidelines before visiting.

Online

For convenience, you can order a birth certificate online through VitalChek. This service allows for faster processing and delivery options, but may include additional processing fees.

How Much Does a Birth Certificate Cost?

The standard fee for obtaining a Maryland birth certificate is $10 per copy. Additional copies ordered at the same time cost $10 each. Expedited service options are available online through VitalChek, which can include additional fees for rush processing and shipping.

Processing Time

The processing time for a birth certificate application in Maryland varies depending on the method used:

• • In person: Same day service is often available;
• • By mail: Typically takes 2-4 weeks from the date of receipt;
• • Online: 3-5 business days for processing, with additional time for shipping based on the method selected.

Following these guidelines carefully will help ensure a smooth application process for obtaining your Maryland birth certificate. If you have specific questions or need more assistance, do not hesitate to contact the Maryland Department of Health directly through their contact page. Ensuring all required documents are accurately provided and following the appropriate steps will assist in receiving your birth certificate promptly.

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.