Order official New Jersey Birth Certificates and Vital Records online

A birth certificate is a fundamental document that serves as official proof of identity and citizenship. It is essential for various purposes, such as applying for a passport, enrolling in school, obtaining social security benefits, and more. Ensuring you have an accurate and up-to-date birth certificate is crucial for these and many other important life events.

Who Can Request a Birth Certificate?

According to New Jersey law, the following individuals are entitled to request a New Jersey birth certificate:

• • The person named on the birth certificate, if they are at least 18 years old;
• • A parent or legal guardian of the person named on the birth certificate;
• • A legal representative of the person named on the birth certificate;
• • A spouse, child, grandchild, or sibling of the person named on the birth certificate;
• • A state or federal agency for official purposes.

What Documents Are Required?

To request a New Jersey birth certificate, you must provide the following required documents:

• • A completed application form, available here;
• • A valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID card;
• • Proof of relationship, such as a marriage certificate or court order, if you are requesting on behalf of someone else;
• • Payment for the applicable fees (details below).

How to Obtain a New Jersey Birth Certificate

By Mail

To obtain a birth certificate by mail, complete the application form and send it along with the required documents and payment to:

Office of Vital Statistics and Registry, New Jersey Department of Health, P.O. Box 370, Trenton, NJ 08625-0370

In Person

You can visit the Office of Vital Statistics and Registry or a local municipal office that has birth records. Bring all required documents and payment with you. Check the New Jersey Department of Health website for office locations and hours.

Online

Requesting a birth certificate online is convenient and can be done through VitalChek. Complete the online application, upload the required documents, and pay the applicable fees.

Tips for Smooth Processing:

• • Double-check that all information is accurate and complete;
• • Ensure that copies of documents are clear and legible;
• • Keep tracking numbers for mailed applications;
• • Use expedited services if needed for faster processing.

How Much Does a Birth Certificate Cost?

The cost for a New Jersey birth certificate is $25 for the first copy and $2 for each additional copy of the same record. Additional fees may apply for online processing or expedited services. For detailed information on costs, visit the New Jersey Department of Health website.

Processing Time

• • By mail: Generally takes 6-8 weeks;
• • In person: Typically processed the same day;
• • Online: Usually 5-7 business days, plus mailing time. Expedited options are available for faster processing.

In conclusion, obtaining a New Jersey birth certificate is a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps and provide all required documents. For additional assistance or specific queries, do not hesitate to contact the New Jersey Department of Health directly. Following these guidelines carefully will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process.

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.