Getting a birth certificate in Texas is simple. You can get one online, by mail or in person at the state Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Vital Records office.
Getting a Birth Certificate Online
You can order a certified copy of your birth certificate online through the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). You must provide personal information, such as your name and date of birth, to create an account with DSHS. After you submit payment, your application will be sent to DSHS for review. Once it’s approved by DSHS, your documents will be mailed to you within seven business days.
Getting a Birth Certificate by Mail
To request a certified copy of your birth certificate by mail, you’ll need to fill out an application form available on the HHSC website. You’ll also have to pay for two copies of the document, which will be mailed along with your original document once it’s approved by HHSC staff. The cost for each certified copy is $28 plus postage fees if applicable. The application must include proof of identity and citizenship status (such as a driver’s license), along with payment for the documents being requested .
You can also request that your birth certificate be mailed directly to an address outside of Texas by providing additional information on the application form. When you receive your certified copy, it will have a raised seal on it and state whether or not it is an original document.
Texas Birth Certificate Rush Services
If you need to get a copy of your Texas birth certificate quickly, you can request rush service. This option is only available when the applicant needs their copy in less than 48 hours. The birth certificate Texas order application form and required documents must be submitted at least 24 hours before the requested deadline.
Conclusion
The Texas Department of State Health Services is the agency that issues certified copies of birth certificates. You can obtain a copy by applying in person at a local vital records office or by submitting an application online. A paper application form must be completed and mailed to the address on the document, along with any required supporting documentation such as a copy of your driver’s license or Social Security card.
