Order official Minnesota Birth Certificates and Vital Records online

A birth certificate is a crucial document that serves as legal proof of identity and citizenship. It is essential for various purposes, including obtaining a passport, enrolling in school, applying for a driver's license, and collecting Social Security benefits. Obtaining a Minnesota birth certificate is a straightforward process, though it requires specific steps and documentation.

Who Can Request a Birth Certificate?

In Minnesota, access to birth certificates is restricted to specific individuals to ensure privacy and security. Eligible requestors include:

• • The individual named on the birth certificate, if they are 16 years or older;
• • A parent named on the birth certificate;
• • A legal guardian or legal representative, with appropriate documentation;
• • A grandparent or a child, if they can provide proof of relationship;
• • Governmental agencies with a legal need to obtain the record.

What Documents Are Required?

To apply for a Minnesota birth certificate, you must provide the following documents:

• • A completed birth certificate application form. Download the form from the Minnesota Department of Health's website;
• • A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID;
• • If you are not one of the individuals named on the birth certificate, additional documentation proving your legal right to the record may be required.

How to Obtain a Minnesota Birth Certificate

By Mail

You can apply for a Minnesota birth certificate by mailing the completed application form, a copy of your photo ID, and the required fee to:

Minnesota Department of Health
Office of Vital Records
P.O. Box 64499
St. Paul, MN 55164-0499

In Person

Visit a local registrar's office or the Minnesota Department of Health Office of Vital Records in person. Be sure to bring the completed application and your ID. For a list of local offices, visit the official website.

Online

The Minnesota Department of Health partners with VitalChek to provide online birth certificate ordering services. This option may include additional processing fees.

To ensure a smooth process:

• • Double-check the completed application for any errors;
• • Ensure all required documents are included;
• • Use a trackable mail service if sending the application by mail.

How Much Does a Birth Certificate Cost?

The standard fee for a Minnesota birth certificate is $26 for the first copy and $19 for each additional copy ordered at the same time. If you require expedited service, an additional fee may apply. For detailed fee information, visit the Minnesota Department of Health's fee page.

Processing Time

Processing times vary depending on the method of application:

• • By Mail: Approximately 2-4 weeks, depending on volume;
• • In Person: Same day service with a potential short wait time;
• • Online: Typically processed within a few business days, plus mailing time.

Following these guidelines carefully will help ensure a smooth and efficient process for obtaining your Minnesota birth certificate. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, do not hesitate to contact the Minnesota Department of Health 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.