New York City
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Birth Certificates

 

All birth records for people born in New York City are kept by the city’s health department. Every parent of a baby will get a free birth certificate from the Health Department about one month after the birth. If you haven’t gotten the certificate in four weeks, call the helpline at 311.

 
What can I do if there is a mistake on my child’s birth certificate?
 
You must send the hospital your order request and the original baby certificate within the first year of the child’s life. Talk to the hospital’s birth clerk for more information.
 
How do I get a corrected birth certificate after your child’s first year?
 
When you receive the original birth certificate, it’s best to make the changes right away. Waiting until your child is a year old can slow things down. For help correcting your child’s birth certificate, please follow this guide carefully at this link: www.nyc.gov/site/doh/services/birth-death-records-corrections-birth.pagef. You can also call 311 to get help.
 
How can I get copies of my child’s birth certificate?

  • Make a Request Online

Get a copy online at VitalCheck, a third-party company approved by the Department of Health. It takes 10 to 15 business days to complete. At a816-evital.nyc.gov/eVitalVRRTS, you can see where your order is in the process. Each certificate has a cost, and there may be additional processing fees. The processing time is four to six weeks.

  • Make a Request by Mail

Complete, sign, and notarize the following document: nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/vr/birth1.pdf. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
 
Learn more about how to get a birth certificate copy at https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/services/birth-death-records-birth.page
 
Updated on May 29, 2024