How to Obtain Birth Certificates in Ohio

Many times throughout life you need a copy of your birth certificate to validate your identity, age or citizenship. You may have misplaced your original and need it to apply to school, join the military or get a passport.

If you were born in Ohio, you could obtain a legal copy of your birth certificate pretty easily by following the steps below.

The Process

The Ohio Department of Health manages all birth records, and you must contact them to get a copy. Ohio makes it very easy for you to get a copy and you can visit one of their 110 vital statistic offices throughout the state. This is the fastest and most efficient method of obtaining a copy.

You can also visit their downtown Columbus office Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to pick up one.

You will need to download and fill out an application first. You will need the following information to fill it out:

• Full name of the person on record.
• Date of birth.
• If the name was changed, the new name.
• City of birth.
• Mother’s full maiden name.
• Father’s full name.
• Your name.
• Your address.
• Your phone number.
• Your email address.
• Your signature.

You may also request a copy through the mail, but you will have to wait about four weeks for processing. Mail your completed application along with the fees to:

Ohio Department of Health

Vital Statistics

P.O. Box 15098

Columbus, Ohio 43215-0098

If you have any questions, you may contact them at (614) 466-2531 or VitalStat@odh.ohio.gov.

The Fees

You must also pay a $21.50 fee when applying. You can pay with a check or money order made out to the Treasurer State of Ohio. When you visit in person, you may also pay with cash.

Other Options

You also have the option of using an online service such VitalChek.com to search for and order a copy of your birth certificate. This service is government-approved for certified copies, and you can order expedited shipping to get them quicker.