As an adopted child, I know the struggles of obtaining birth records and other important information prior to being adopted. Birth certificates can be difficult to obtain in some places. Arizona is a closed record state which means that vital records are not public record. You have different options for obtaining an original birth certificate in Arizona.
In Arizona, you must meet some requirements to be able to request one. The requirements are that you must be at least 18 years old and submit a signed application. You must provide either a valid government-issued identification or have a notarized signature on the application. This application also requires a fee that you must submit before obtaining the certificate. Once you meet these requirements, the next step is to apply for a birth certificate.
There are several options to apply. You can apply online, in person, or by mail. To apply for a birth certificate online, you can visit this website. If you choose to apply in person, you must make an appointment with your local county health department Office of Vital Records.
Applying by mail is a lengthier process. First, you must submit a completed application for certified copy of birth certificate which you can find at the Arizona Department of Health Services website. You must then submit a copy of both the front and back of your government issued picture identification with your signature or you can have your signature notarized. With your application and copy of your identification, you must also submit some form of payment for the fee. You can also find this information on the Department of Health Services website under the fee schedule. Once you are ready to submit it, you will mail all of the necessary paperwork along with a self-addressed stamped envelope. You will address it to the office of vital records in your county which you will find on the Department of Health Services website. When your request is received, it will take five days to be processed.
