Order official Pennsylvania Birth Certificates and Vital Records online

A birth certificate is a crucial legal document that serves as proof of identity, age, and citizenship. It is essential for various purposes, including enrolling in school, obtaining a social security number, applying for a passport, and verifying personal information for employment or government benefits. In Pennsylvania, obtaining a birth certificate involves a specific process, which this guide will explain in detail.

Who Can Request a Birth Certificate?

In Pennsylvania, birth certificates can be requested by:

• • The individual named on the birth certificate (if 18 years or older);
• • A parent or legal guardian;
• • A legal representative with a notarized letter of authorization;
• • Immediate family members (spouse, sibling, grandparent, grandchild) for a deceased individual, with proof of relationship and death certificate.

What Documents Are Required?

When applying for a Pennsylvania birth certificate, the following documents are typically required:

• • A completed application form; Download the application form here;
• • A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, state ID, passport);
• • Proof of relationship (for family members requesting for a deceased individual);
• • Payment of applicable fees.

How to Obtain a Pennsylvania Birth Certificate

There are several ways to apply for a Pennsylvania birth certificate:

By Mail

• • Download and complete the application form;
• • Enclose the required identification documents;
• • Include payment by check or money order;
• • Mail to the Division of Vital Records at P.O. Box 1528, New Castle, PA 16103.

In Person

• • Locate a public office for the Division of Vital Records;
• • Bring a completed application form and required documents;
• • Make the payment using approved methods (cash, check, money order).

Online

• • Use a third-party service such as VitalChek;
• • Complete the online application form;
• • Provide digital copies of required identification;
• • Pay with a credit or debit card.

To ensure a smooth application process, double-check all information and documents before submission, and consider using tracking for mailed applications.

How Much Does a Birth Certificate Cost?

The cost for a Pennsylvania birth certificate is as follows:

• • Standard certificate: $20 per copy;
• • Expedited service (available through VitalChek): additional fees apply.

Payment can be made via check, money order, or credit/debit card depending on the method of application.

Processing Time

Processing times vary depending on the method of application:

• • By mail: Generally 6-8 weeks;
• • In person: Usually same-day service;
• • Online through VitalChek: 5-10 business days, plus shipping time.

Following these guidelines carefully will help ensure your application for a Pennsylvania birth certificate is processed smoothly. If you have any specific questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out directly to the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s Division of Vital Records.

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.