Non-certified copy of a birth record

What is a non-certified copy of a birth record?

A non-certified copy of a birth record is a plain paper copy of the birth record. Changes made to the birth record after 2000 may not be reflected on the non-certified copy if the birth took place before 2001.

A non-certified copy is for information only and will not be accepted for any legal purpose such as school enrollment or obtaining a drivers license or a passport. If you need a copy for a legal purpose, see certified birth certificate.

Demonstration of tangible interest is not required to obtain a non-certified copy of a birth record. However, release of non-certified copies of confidential birth records is restricted so you will be required to have your signature notarized on the application.

For births that took place prior to 2001, the non-certified copy of the birth record will not include any health information. For births that took place during 2001 and later, the non-certified copy may be requested with or without health information. Health information is classified as private data by Minnesota Statutes, section 144.225, subdivision 2a. If you do not indicate that you are the mother named on the birth record, the health information will not be released. If you request health information, you will be required to have your signature notarized on the application.

How to obtain a non-certified copy of a birth record

1. Print and complete the Birth Record Application - Non-certified Copy Form (see below).

2. Complete a separate application form for each birth record.

3. Follow the directions on the application to determine if you are required to have your signature notarized.

4. Compute the charges for your order.

The charge for a non-certified copy of a birth record is $13. Additional copies of the same record purchased in the same order are $6.

Optional fees include:

An Expedite fee is an optional $20 per-record fee that will place your request ahead of other requests. An Expedite fee does NOT include Federal Express or other special mailing fees.

Federal Express Mail Service for next day delivery is $16 for most deliveries. Higher rates apply to Saturday or international service and to deliveries to Alaska and Hawaii.

VitalChek Network User Fee if you fax your application and pay by credit card is $6.

5. Make your check or money order payable to Minnesota Department of Health. Checks returned for nonpayment will be charged a $30 fee according to Minnesota Statutes, section 604.113, subdivision 2, and civil penalties may be imposed for nonpayment.

6. Mail the completed form and payment to:

Minnesota Department of Health
Attention: Office of the State Registrar/ Birth Certificates
P.O. Box 64499
St. Paul, Minnesota 55164-0882

OR

Fax the completed form, credit card (Master Card, VISA, and Discover Card) number and expiration date to 651-201-5740.

Before you choose to pay with a credit card, please read the authorization and disclaimer.

Allow 4-6 weeks for processing applications.

Birth Record Application - Non-certified Copy Form (Interactive PDF: 30KB/1 page). Word file (57KB).

Non-Certified Copy of a Birth Record Fee Worksheet

To view PDF files you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader or for screen reader accessibility Adobe Acrobat Access (free downloads from Adobe Web site).

If you have questions, please e-mail health.osr1@state.mn.us or call 651-201-5970.