There are times when you need to get a certified copy of your birth certificate to prove your identity. For instance, a certified copy is required to apply for a passport, social services, to enroll in some schools and for other legal matters.
Also, starting in October 2020 all U.S. residents will need to begin using the new Federal Real ID. The Real ID is a compliant license, ID card, or another acceptable form of identification obtained from your state. You’ll need it in 2020 to board commercial aircraft. If you haven’t exchanged your driver’s license for a Real ID, you might want to get started.
The first step towards this is to get your Maryland birth certificate to prove your identity.
Who Can Obtain a Maryland Birth Certificate?
It’s easy to get a copy of your birth certificate if you were born in the State of Maryland. There are some rules around who can apply for a certified birth certificate, however. Here they are:
- Any individual may request their own birth certificate
- A parent can request a birth certificate for a child if they are named on the certificate
- A court-appointed guardian, with proof, can request an individual’s birth certificate
- Foster parents are not allowed to request birth certificates
How to Order a Certified Copy of a Birth Certificate
There are several ways to order your Maryland birth certificate: by mail, online, by phone, or in person.
By Mail
To get your certificate by mail, you must first download an application. The forms are available in English and Spanish. Complete the entire application, take a photocopy of your identification and mail these with the correct fee to:
Division of Vital Records
6764B Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21215
You’ll also have to include a self-addressed envelope so your birth certificate can be mailed to you. You can pay with check or money order made payable to the Division of Vital Records. ​
In Person
You can also order your certificate person. By going in person, you can usually get same-day service. Make sure you have your valid, government-issued photo ID (your driver’s license) with you. Visit the main office at:
Division of Vital Records
6764B Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21215
You will pay your fee right on the spot and you can use cash, check or money made payable to the Division of Vital Records.
Online
By far, the easiest way to order your birth certificate is to order it online. Ordering through our secure website is fast and can be done from anywhere. If you don’t need your certificate the same day, this is the easiest way to get your birth certificate.
