A birth certificate can be used for a number of reasons, including applying for a passport, getting married or divorced and buying a home. In Texas, you can apply for a copy of your birth certificate at the Office of Vital Statistics.
You must submit your application in person at the Texas Department of State Health Services main office in Austin. If you cannot make it to Austin, you can request an expedited service that allows you to receive your copy within four hours. This service is available only if it is needed within 48 hours of when the application is submitted.
If you need a certified copy of your birth certificate, you must provide proof of identity such as a U.S. driver’s license or state ID card along with two proofs of residence such as utility bills or rental agreements showing your current address. If you do not have these documents on hand when submitting your application, they can be mailed or faxed to the Office of Vital Statistics once approved by the Vital Records Section supervisor on duty at the time of submission.
You can also request a certified copy of your birth certificate by phone or in person. To do this, you must have a credit card or money order for payment and two proofs of identity such as a U.S. driver’s license or state ID card along with two proofs of residence such as utility bills or rental agreements showing your current address.
If you do not have these documents on hand when submitting your application, they can be mailed or faxed to the Office of Vital Statistics once approved by the Vital Records Section supervisor on duty at the time of submission.
Texas Birth Certificate Private Agencies
There are a number of private agencies that can help you obtain your copy of birth certificate Texas. These companies charge fees for their services, which vary depending on the company, the type of document required and any additional requirements such as providing proof of identity or residency.