Order official Washington Birth Certificates and Vital Records online

A birth certificate is a crucial document that serves as proof of a person's identity and citizenship. It is often required for various legal purposes, such as enrolling in school, applying for a passport, obtaining a driver's license, and for employment verification. This guide will walk you through the steps on how to get a Washington birth certificate, including the application process, cost, and required documents.

Who Can Request a Birth Certificate?

In Washington, birth certificates can typically be requested by:

• • The individual named on the birth certificate (if 18 years or older);
• • Parents listed on the birth certificate;
• • Legal guardians or representatives with valid proof of guardianship;
• • Governmental agencies for official purposes.

What Documents Are Required?

To apply for a Washington birth certificate, you will generally need to provide the following documents:

• • Completed application form;
• • Valid photo identification (e.g., driver's license, passport);
• • Proof of relationship or legal interest if you are not the individual named on the certificate.

You can download the application form and get more detailed instructions on how to complete it from the Washington State Department of Health website.

How to Obtain a Washington Birth Certificate

By Mail

To request a birth certificate by mail, you should:

• • Complete the birth certificate application form;
• • Include a copy of your valid photo ID;
• • Attach a check or money order for the appropriate fee;
• • Mail the documents to the address provided on the application form.

In Person

You can also obtain a birth certificate in person by visiting the Department of Health office. Here’s what you need to do:

• • Bring the completed application form;
• • Provide a valid photo ID;
• • Make the payment using cash, check, or credit card.

Online

For a more convenient option, you can apply for a Washington birth certificate online via VitalChek. This third-party service facilitates the process and allows you to pay with a credit card. Ensure all required documents are correctly uploaded to avoid delays.

For all methods, double-check that your application form is thoroughly completed to ensure a smooth process.

How Much Does a Birth Certificate Cost?

The cost of obtaining a birth certificate in Washington is $25 per copy. Additional copies can be requested at the same cost. For those needing the certificate faster, expedited processing is available through online services like VitalChek, which may include additional fees.

Processing Time

The processing time for a Washington birth certificate varies depending on the method of application:

• • By mail: Typically 3-4 weeks;
• • In person: Same day, provided all documents are in order;
• • Online: About 1-2 weeks with expedited options available.

The importance of obtaining a birth certificate cannot be overstated, as it is integral for proving identity and citizenship. By following these guidelines carefully, you can ensure a smooth application process. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the Washington State 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.