Order official Michigan Birth Certificates and Vital Records online

A birth certificate is a critical document that serves as official proof of identity and age. It is essential for various activities, such as enrolling in school, obtaining a driver's license, applying for a passport, and verifying one's eligibility for certain government benefits. Ensuring that you have an accurate and accessible birth certificate is crucial for various administrative processes throughout life.

Who Can Request a Birth Certificate?

In Michigan, the following individuals are eligible to request a birth certificate:

• • The person named on the certificate (if they are 18 years or older);
• • A parent named on the certificate;
• • A legal guardian or legal representative, with proper documentation;
• • A court of competent jurisdiction;
• • An heir, beneficiary, or legal representative of the person named on the certificate (if the person is deceased).

What Documents Are Required?

When applying for a Michigan birth certificate, you will need to provide the following documents:

• • A completed application form, which can be downloaded from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) website;
• • A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, state ID, passport);
• • Proof of legal representation or guardianship (if applicable);
• • Any required fees.

How to Obtain a Michigan Birth Certificate

Online

You can request a Michigan birth certificate online through VitalChek. This method is convenient and allows for expedited processing with additional fees.

By Mail

To request a birth certificate by mail, complete the application form, gather the required documents, and mail them along with the payment to:

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
Vital Records Request
P.O. Box 30721
Lansing, MI 48909

In Person

You can also obtain a birth certificate in person by visiting the Michigan Vital Records Office at:

333 S. Grand Avenue,
1st Floor, Lansing, MI 48933

Make sure to bring your completed application form, required identification, and the applicable fees.

To ensure smooth processing, double-check that all information is correct and that you’ve included all necessary documents.

How Much Does a Birth Certificate Cost?

The cost of obtaining a Michigan birth certificate varies:

• • The standard fee is $34 for the first copy and $16 for each additional copy requested at the same time;
• • Expedited service is available for an additional $12 (online requests may have varying fees based on service levels);
• • In-person requests can sometimes be processed the same day for an extra fee.

Processing Time

Processing times depend on the method of request:

• • Online: Approximately 1-2 weeks, faster with expedited service;
• • By Mail: Typically 2-6 weeks;
• • In Person: Same-day service is often available, but it’s wise to arrive early and check for busy periods.

Obtaining a birth certificate in Michigan requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specified guidelines. By following the instructions provided and ensuring all necessary documents and fees are submitted, you can facilitate a smooth and efficient application process. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to contact the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services directly.

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.