There may be an instance when it is necessary to replace certain documents like lost birth certificates, or you may need to obtain other certified documents that are needed for the birth of a citizen of the United States. The following list will explain how to order these documents online. Please note that a valid form of I.D. and other documents may be required when trying to obtain one of the documents:

1. State and county records
All citizens of the United States can obtain a copy of their birth certificate online through their state’s website for vital records or vital statistics. A simple Google search can take you to your state vital statistics website where you can get a certified copy of a birth certificate. Residents and nonresidents of the state can obtain their birth certificate, family member birth certificate, or their children birth certificate online but keep in mind that states will require that you submit the appropriate identification that meets their requirements to get a birth certificate, the completion of an application online application, and the fee requested by the state. Visit your state’s vital statistics website to see if there are any additional requirements. As requirements vary.

2. Documents needed when abroad
Children of United States citizens that are born abroad receive a Consular Report of Birth Abroad FS-240, which is essentially their birth certificate. The parent of a child under 18 must fill out an application for FS-240 and apply for the Consular Report of Birth Abroad at the nearest consulate or U.S. Embassy. The consulate or U.S Embassy will determine if the child is a U.S. citizen and a consular officer will approve the application. Once the application is approved the Department of State will issue the Consular Report of Birth Abroad. If needed, a copy of the Consular Report of Birth Abroad can be replaced by applying to the Department of State. See the Department of State’s website for requirements and applicable fees to obtain a copy.

3. Consular report of birth abroad
Certificates of Report of Birth DS-1350 used to be issued as a means to provide proof of U.S. citizenship but the Department of State stopped issuing the certificate at the end of 2010. Certificates of Report of Birth that were issued are still valid but this certificate is no longer issued.

4. Another method to get documents
The (CRBA), Consular Report of Birth Abroad can only be obtained by applying for it at a U.S. Embassy or consulate and the Department of State will issue it. Once issued a copy can be obtained through the Department of State. Certified Birth Certificates for citizens born within the United States can be obtained through each state’s Vital Statistics or vital record department but a certified copy of a birth certificate can also be obtained online through several businesses that work as an intermediary to obtain a birth certificate. There are many of these businesses online. You can effortlessly find one online but using the services of one of these businesses may cost you additional fees on top of what your state requires when filling out an application for a birth certificate. Unless you have to, we suggest cutting out the middleman and going straight through the state and county Vital Records to get a birth certificate.