Maryland Birth Certificates From Maryland Division of Vital Records (DVR)

Maryland Birth Certificate Types

Certified 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. The certificate is printed on security paper with the official state seal.

Certified Birth Certificate

Apply to receive this document from the Maryland Division of Vital Records (DVR).

Other Types of Birth Certificates

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

A cartoon of a family wondering how to order their birth certificate replacements.

Who Can Receive A Copy?

Under Maryland law, birth certificates are “closed records,” meaning they are not accessible by the public. Only the following individuals may be issued certified copies of birth certificates upon paying the appropriate fees, providing proof of identification, and completely filling out the application form:

The individual whose name appears on the birth certificate (registrant)

A parent named on the certificate

A court-appointed guardian of the registrant. A foster care appointment is not acceptable; proof of guardianship must be submitted

A surviving spouse of the registrant

A representative of: (1) the registrant or a parent named on the certificate; or (2) the court-appointed guardian of the registrant. The representative must have a letter signed by the individual, parent, or guardian, and certified by a notary public, stating that the representative has permission to obtain a copy of the certificate

Maryland Vital Statistics Agency Information

Maryland Division of Vital Records (DVR)

The Maryland Division of Vital Records (DVR) keeps records and issues certificates of vital events, including birth, death, fetal death, marriage, and divorce that occurred in the state of Maryland.

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.