Iowa Birth Certificates From Iowa Department of Public Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics

Iowa Birth Certificate Types

Only one type of birth certificate is available in this state.

Regular Birth Certificate – Certified copies of birth certificates that may be used for practically all legal purposes, including proof of citizenship, school enrollment, personal identification, passports, social security, and employment. Birth certificates are available for all births that took place in Iowa from July 1, 1880, to the present.

Regular Birth Certificate

Apply to receive this document from the Iowa Department of Public Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics.

Other Types Of Birth Certificate

All other types of birth certificate are unavailable in this state.

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Who Can Receive A Copy?

Under Iowa law, birth certificates are not public records, and only those with direct interest may be issued certified copies of birth certificates. Eligible applicants for certified birth certificate copies include the registrant themselves (the person whose name appears on the record), their spouse, children, birth parents (listed on the record), grandparents, grandchildren, siblings, or legal representative or guardian. Siblings, legal representatives, and guardians must provide additional proof of entitlement first.

The registrant (name on the birth certificate)

Mother or father as shown on the record

Grandparent, aunt, or uncle (must show proof of relationship)

Sibling, child, or grandchild (must be at least 18 years old and show proof of relationship)

Spouse (must show proof of marriage)

Court-appointed legal guardian (with ID and official guardianship papers)

An attorney representing the registrant – must have ID for self and provide a document with direct interest spelled out on letterhead or court documents

Iowa Vital Statistics Agency Information

Iowa Department of Public Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics

The Iowa Department of Public Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics keeps records and issues certificates of vital events, including birth, death, and marriages that occurred in the state of Iowa. Iowa has been maintaining vital records since July 1, 1880.

Notice: It is in Instant Vital Records’ best interest to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information on this site, but state agency information and policies may change without notice. Instant Vital Records makes no warranties, expressed or implied, regarding accuracy, adequacy, completeness, reliability, or usefulness of any information, nor do we assume the liability of such information.