How to get a birth certificate in iowa

Understanding Iowa Birth Certificates

A birth certificate is a vital record that legally documents a person’s birth. It serves as proof of identity, age, and U.S. citizenship, essential for various life events. In Iowa, these records are maintained at both the state and county levels, offering flexibility in how you can obtain a copy.

The Iowa Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Vital Records is the central repository for all birth records in the state. However, each of Iowa’s 99 county recorders also maintains records for births that occurred within their respective counties. This dual system allows for convenient access, whether you prefer to apply directly to the state or through a local county office.

Who Can Request a Birth Certificate in Iowa?

Iowa law restricts access to certified copies of birth certificates to protect individual privacy and prevent identity theft. Only eligible individuals can obtain a certified copy. These include:

• The person named on the certificate (the registrant), if they are 18 years of age or older.
• A parent listed on the certificate.
• A legal guardian with court documentation.
• A spouse, child, or sibling of the registrant, provided they can prove their relationship.
• A legal representative acting on behalf of an eligible individual.

Proof of identity and, in some cases, proof of relationship, is always required. Uncertified copies, sometimes called "informational copies," are generally not issued for birth certificates in Iowa, as the state prioritizes the security of these records.

Why You Might Need a Birth Certificate

A certified copy of your birth certificate is a foundational document required for numerous official purposes throughout your life. These include:

• Obtaining a driver’s license or state identification card.
• Applying for a U.S. passport.
• Enrolling in school or college.
• Registering for Social Security benefits.
• Applying for marriage licenses or other vital records.
• Establishing eligibility for certain employment or military service.
• Claiming pension or insurance benefits.

Practical Steps to Obtain a Birth Certificate in Iowa

There are three primary methods to request a certified copy of a birth certificate in Iowa: in person, by mail, or through an authorized online service.

1. Applying In Person

Applying in person is often the quickest way to receive a birth certificate, as it can typically be issued on the same day.

• Where to Go: You can visit the Iowa Department of Public Health, Bureau of Vital Records in Des Moines, or any County Recorder’s office in Iowa. If you know the county where the birth occurred, visiting that specific County Recorder’s office might be slightly faster, but any County Recorder can access state records.
• What to Bring:
  • A completed application form (available at the office or online).
  • Valid photo identification (e.g., driver’s license, state ID, passport).
  • Proof of relationship, if you are not the registrant or a parent listed on the certificate.
  • The required fee (check with the specific office for current amounts, typically around $15-$20 per copy). Payment is usually accepted via cash, check, or money order.

2. Applying By Mail

Applying by mail is a convenient option if you cannot visit an office in person, but it takes longer to process.

• Steps:
  1. Download the Application Form: Obtain the "Application for Certified Copy of Iowa Birth Certificate" from the Iowa Department of Public Health website.
  2. Complete the Form: Fill out all required sections accurately.
  3. Get Your Signature Notarized: This is a crucial step for mail-in applications. Your signature on the application form must be notarized by a certified notary public. This verifies your identity.
  4. Gather Required Documents: Include a clear photocopy of your valid photo identification. If necessary, include proof of your relationship to the registrant.
  5. Prepare Payment: Include a check or money order made payable to the "Iowa Department of Public Health" or the specific County Recorder’s office, for the correct fee. Do not send cash through the mail.
  6. Mail Your Application: Send the completed, notarized form, ID copy, and payment to:
     Iowa Department of Public Health
     Bureau of Vital Records
     Lucas State Office Building, 1st Floor
     321 E. 12th Street
     Des Moines, IA 50319-0075
     Alternatively, mail it to the specific County Recorder’s office.

3. Applying Online (Through Authorized Third-Party)

For those seeking a faster alternative to mail, Iowa partners with an authorized third-party vendor, VitalChek Network, Inc., for online and phone orders.

• How it Works:
  • Visit the official VitalChek website (ensure it’s the one linked from the IDPH site to avoid unofficial services).
  • Follow the prompts to select Iowa and request a birth certificate.
  • You will need to provide personal information, upload copies of your identification, and pay with a credit card.
  • VitalChek charges an additional processing fee on top of the state’s standard fee.
• Processing Time: Online orders are generally processed faster than mail orders and can be expedited for an additional fee.

Fees and Processing Times

• Fees: The standard fee for a certified copy of a birth certificate in Iowa is typically $15 to $20 per copy. This fee is set by the state, but county offices may have slight variations or additional local fees. Online services like VitalChek will add their own processing and shipping fees.
• Processing Times:
  • In Person: Usually immediate (same day).
  • By Mail: Can take 2-4 weeks, sometimes longer during peak periods. This includes mailing time both ways.
  • Online (VitalChek): Generally faster than mail, often processed within 5-10 business days, plus shipping time. Expedited options are available for an extra cost.

Important Considerations and Safety Notes

• Official Sources Only: Always apply for birth certificates through the official Iowa Department of Public Health, a County Recorder’s office, or their authorized online partner (VitalChek). Be wary of unofficial websites that may charge excessive fees or be fraudulent.
• Notarization: For mail applications, notarization is crucial for identity verification. A notary public is an impartial witness who verifies your identity and watches you sign the document. Many banks, credit unions, and public libraries offer notary services, often for free or a small fee.
• Accuracy of Information: Ensure all information provided on the application is accurate and matches existing records. Errors can cause delays or rejection of your application.
• Amendments: If there are errors on a birth certificate, or if you need to change information (e.g., due to adoption or gender change), there is a separate legal process for amendment. Contact the Bureau of Vital Records for specific instructions on amending a birth certificate.
• Identity Theft Prevention: Never share your personal information or copies of your identification with unverified sources. The strict requirements for obtaining vital records are in place to protect your identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a birth certificate cost in Iowa?
The standard fee for a certified copy of a birth certificate in Iowa is typically $15 to $20. Online services like VitalChek will add additional processing and shipping fees.

How long does it take to get a birth certificate in Iowa?
In-person applications are usually processed immediately. Mail applications can take 2-4 weeks. Online orders through VitalChek generally take 5-10 business days plus shipping, with expedited options available.

Can I get an Iowa birth certificate online?
Yes, you can order an Iowa birth certificate online through VitalChek Network, Inc., which is the only authorized third-party vendor for the Iowa Department of Public Health.

What if I was born in Iowa but live out of state?
You can still apply by mail or through VitalChek. Ensure your application is notarized if applying by mail and that you provide valid identification.

What documents do I need to get a birth certificate?
You will need a completed application form, valid photo identification (like a driver’s license or passport), and proof of relationship if you are not the registrant or a parent listed on the certificate. For mail applications, your signature must be notarized.

Conclusion

Obtaining a birth certificate in Iowa is a straightforward process, provided you meet the eligibility requirements and follow the correct procedures. Whether you choose to apply in person at the Iowa Department of Public Health or a County Recorder’s office, by mail, or through the authorized online service VitalChek, remember to have your identification ready, complete the application accurately, and include the appropriate fee. Always use official channels to ensure the security and validity of your vital record request.