How to Get an Ohio Birth Certificate Online

Do you need a birth certificate for a job, school, passport, or to meet Ohio ID requirements?

A certified copy is an essential legal document, and getting one shouldn’t be stressful.

This guide explains how to order a certified copy of your birth certificate in Ohio.

Why you need a certified copy

A certified copy of your birth certificate is an official vital record that proves your identity, age, and citizenship.

You may need it for:

• Driver’s license or state ID applications
• Passport applications and travel
• School, benefits, and Social Security purposes
• Employment and other legal identification needs

Knowing how to get a certified copy of your Ohio birth certificate is important.

How to get a copy in Ohio (3 ways)

1. Online ordering (fastest option)

Ordering your birth certificate online through StateVitalRecords.org is the quickest and most convenient way to get your certified copy.

• Fill out the online order form.
• If you haven’t supplied all the supporting documentation after checkout, please do.
• Pay using a credit or debit card.

StateVitalRecords sends your completed request to the correct vital records office. They will issue the official certificate for you.

Online ordering is best if you need your certificate fast and want to handle everything from home.

2. Mail-in ordering

If you prefer ordering by mail, you can still start the process with clear instructions online.

• Print and fill out the necessary form(s).
• Send the form(s) to the right vital statistics unit. The application form lists this unit. Include your payment, either a check or money order.

If you have questions about this method, please click here.

3. In-person ordering

Ohio also allows ordering in person.

• Visit a branch.
• Bring an acceptable form of identification
• Pay the fee (cash, check, money order, credit or debit)

This is the best option for face-to-face help or for handling the process directly at a local office.

Access to certified copies (qualified applicants)

Ohio is an Open Record state, meaning qualified applicants must provide the information needed to identify the record.

Identification requirements

Ohio is an Open Record state, so qualified applicants must provide information to identify the record.

You must provide an acceptable form of identification, especially for in-person orders.

Cost and processing times

Ohio birth certificate fees are:

• Birth certificate: $25
• Additional copies: $25 each
• StateVitalRecords transaction fee: starts at $14 and may vary depending on delivery method

Get Your Ohio Birth Certificate Today

Now that you know how to get your birth certificate and what your options are, the process is simple.

Choose what works best for you:

• Online ordering for speed and convenience
• Mail-in ordering if you prefer paperwork
• In-person ordering for immediate assistance.

If you need help with requirements, ordering, or support, contact StateVitalRecords customer service.

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COMMON QUESTIONS

ARE THE BIRTH CERTIFICATES OFFICIAL?

Yes. Ohio birth certificates are official documents from the Ohio Department of Public Health. All state and federal agencies accept them. You can use them for passports, state-issued ID/driver’s licenses, travel, employment, Social Security, school, and more.

WHAT KIND OF PAYMENT METHODS DO YOU ACCEPT?

We accept Visa, MasterCard, JCB, American Express and Discover. Please contact us for more payment options.

ARE YOU AFFILIATED WITH THE STATE OF OHIO?

We are a privately-owned site, not affiliated with nor endorsed by the state of Ohio. However, we dedicate ourselves to maintaining a positive relationship and reputation with everyone, including the Ohio Department of State Health Services’ Vital Statistics Unit.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT STATE VITAL RECORDS?

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• Safe Places To Store Your Birth Certificate
• The 5 Most Powerful Passports In The World