North Dakota Birth Certificate Application Form: A Comprehensive Guide
Navigating the process of obtaining a birth certificate in North Dakota requires understanding specific guidelines and procedures, ensuring a smooth application experience for all citizens.
Understanding the Vital Records Process in North Dakota
North Dakota’s Vital Records section, within the Department of Health, manages all birth certificates—essential legal documents. This process ensures accurate record-keeping and protects individual identity. Obtaining a birth certificate isn’t simply a form submission; it involves verifying eligibility, providing correct information, and adhering to established fees.
The state prioritizes secure access to these records, balancing individual rights with public health needs. Understanding these nuances is crucial for a successful application, whether applying for yourself or on behalf of a family member.

Who Can Apply for a North Dakota Birth Certificate?
Generally, anyone over 18 can request a North Dakota birth certificate. However, specific restrictions apply. The individual named on the certificate, their parents (listed on the record), legal guardians (with documentation), or a legal representative can apply. Grandparents, siblings, or other relatives typically require a court order or power of attorney.
Proof of identity and a direct relationship to the person on the certificate are vital. These requirements safeguard privacy and prevent fraudulent requests, ensuring only authorized individuals access sensitive vital records.
Different Types of Birth Certificates Available
North Dakota offers both certified and uncertified copies of birth certificates. Certified copies are legally valid for identification purposes, such as obtaining a driver’s license or passport. They bear a raised seal and the registrar’s signature, confirming authenticity.
Uncertified copies, while containing the same information, are generally used for informational purposes only and are not accepted for legal verification. The choice depends on the intended use of the document, impacting the application process and associated fees.
Certified vs. Uncertified Copies
A certified birth certificate in North Dakota is a legally recognized document, essential for proving identity and citizenship. It features a registrar’s signature and an embossed seal, guaranteeing its validity for official purposes like school enrollment or social security applications.
Conversely, an uncertified copy lacks these security features and is primarily for personal records. While it displays the same birth information, it’s not acceptable for legal identification, making the certified version the preferred choice for most requests.
Where to Obtain the Application Form
North Dakota residents have convenient options for accessing the birth certificate application form. The primary method is through the official North Dakota Department of Health website, offering a downloadable PDF for easy access. Alternatively, applicants can request a form via mail by contacting the Vital Records section directly.
While third-party websites may offer similar forms, utilizing the official source ensures accuracy and avoids potential processing delays or complications. Always verify the form’s authenticity before completing it.
Online Options & Official Website

The North Dakota Department of Health’s official website is the most reliable source for online access to the birth certificate application. Applicants can download the necessary PDF form directly, eliminating the need for postal requests.
Currently, fully online application submission isn’t available; the downloaded form must be printed, completed, and mailed with required documentation and payment. The website also provides detailed instructions and frequently asked questions to guide applicants through the process efficiently.
Mail-in Application Availability
The primary method for submitting a North Dakota birth certificate application is via mail. Completed applications, along with copies of acceptable identification and the required fee, should be sent to the Vital Records section of the North Dakota Department of Health.
Applicants must ensure all sections are accurately filled out to avoid processing delays. It’s crucial to use a secure mailing method, like certified mail, to track the application’s delivery and confirm receipt by the department.
Required Information for the Application Form
Completing the North Dakota birth certificate application necessitates detailed and accurate information. This includes the full name at birth, date and place of birth, and potentially, the applicant’s relationship to the person named on the certificate.
Providing correct details minimizes processing delays. The form also requires comprehensive parental information, including full names (including maiden names), dates and places of birth, and potentially, their occupations.
Information About the Person on the Certificate
Accurate details regarding the individual named on the birth certificate are paramount; This includes their complete legal name at the time of birth, the precise date of birth (month, day, and year), and the city and county where the birth occurred within North Dakota.
Any discrepancies can cause significant delays. Providing the hospital name (if applicable) and the mother’s maiden name are also crucial pieces of information required for successful processing.
Parental Information Requirements
The application necessitates comprehensive parental details for verification purposes. This includes the full legal names of both parents as they appeared at the time of the child’s birth. Providing the parents’ dates of birth and places of birth is also essential for accurate record matching.
If parents are deceased, documentation confirming this may be required. Information regarding parental marital status at the time of birth is also necessary for processing.
Acceptable Forms of Identification

To ensure secure processing, the North Dakota Vital Records office requires valid identification from all applicants. Primarily accepted are current, government-issued photo IDs like driver’s licenses or state-issued identification cards. Passports are also widely accepted as proof of identity.
Applicants lacking photo identification may submit secondary documents, but additional verification steps might be necessary to confirm their eligibility.
Valid Photo IDs
North Dakota readily accepts several forms of valid photo identification for birth certificate applications. These include a current driver’s license issued by any U.S. state or territory, a state-issued identification card, and a valid U.S. passport. Foreign passports are also generally accepted.
The identification must be original or a certified copy; photocopies are typically not sufficient. Ensure the ID is unexpired and clearly displays your photograph and name.

Secondary Identification Documents
If a valid photo ID isn’t immediately available, North Dakota allows for secondary identification documents to support your birth certificate application. Acceptable options include a certified copy of a previous birth certificate (not the one requested), a marriage certificate, or official court records displaying your name and date of birth.
Two or more of these documents may be required to verify your identity, especially when a photo ID is absent.
The Application Fee and Payment Methods
A fee is required when requesting a North Dakota birth certificate, currently set at a specific amount as of February 16, 2026. Payment can be submitted through several convenient methods, including check or money order made payable to the North Dakota Department of Health.
Credit card payments are also accepted for online applications, providing a faster processing option. Ensure accurate payment to avoid delays.
Current Fee Schedule (as of 02/16/2026)
As of today, February 16, 2026, a certified copy of a North Dakota birth certificate costs $15 per copy. Each additional copy requested simultaneously incurs the same fee. There may be additional charges for expedited processing, if that service is available.
Fees are subject to change, so verifying the current schedule on the official North Dakota Department of Health website is crucial before submitting your application.
Accepted Payment Options
The North Dakota Department of Health currently accepts several payment methods for birth certificate applications. These include checks and money orders made payable to the “State of North Dakota.” Credit and debit card payments are generally accepted for online applications through the official state portal.
Please note that cash is not accepted for mail-in applications. Verify accepted methods on the official website, as policies can change.
Completing the North Dakota Birth Certificate Application Form
Successfully completing the application requires careful attention to detail. Begin by downloading the official form from the North Dakota Department of Health website or requesting a copy via mail. Fill out all sections legibly, providing accurate information about the individual named on the certificate and their parents.
Double-check for errors before submitting, as inaccuracies can cause delays. Include the required fee and identification.
Step-by-Step Instructions

First, obtain the application form – either online or by mail. Next, meticulously complete all required fields, ensuring accuracy in names, dates, and locations. Provide parental details as requested, including full names and places of birth. Include a copy of acceptable identification, and calculate the correct fee based on the current schedule.
Finally, submit the completed form and payment to the designated address.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Frequently, applicants submit incomplete forms, leading to processing delays. Ensure all sections are filled accurately, particularly dates and full names – even minor discrepancies can cause rejection. Avoid using vague terms; be specific with locations. Double-check your identification copy for clarity.
Incorrect fee calculations are also common; verify the current schedule. Finally, failing to sign the application is a frequent oversight.
Processing Time and Delivery Options
Standard processing for North Dakota birth certificate applications typically takes 10-15 business days from receipt of a complete application and payment. Processing times can fluctuate based on volume. Expedited service, if offered, may reduce this timeframe to 3-5 business days for an additional fee.
Delivery is generally via standard mail; applicants can often opt for expedited shipping for faster receipt, incurring extra costs.
Standard Processing Times
For standard birth certificate requests in North Dakota, the typical processing timeframe is approximately 10 to 15 business days. This begins after the Vital Records office receives a fully completed application, alongside acceptable payment.
Please note that these are estimates, and actual processing times can vary depending on current application volumes and potential backlogs. Allow extra time during peak periods.
Expedited Service Options (if available)
Currently, the North Dakota Vital Records office does not consistently offer a dedicated expedited processing service for birth certificate applications. However, it’s advisable to check the official website frequently for updates regarding potential temporary expedited options.
While not guaranteed, submitting applications via certified mail with return receipt requested can provide proof of delivery, potentially streamlining the process. Monitor the website for any changes to service levels.
Amendments to Birth Certificates

Correcting errors or updating information on a North Dakota birth certificate requires a formal amendment process. This typically involves submitting an application, along with supporting documentation proving the inaccuracy or the changes needed.
Acceptable proof can include court orders, adoption decrees, or affidavits. The process differs based on the type of amendment; corrections usually require less documentation than adding or changing parental information. Contact Vital Records for specific form requirements.
Process for Correcting Errors
To correct errors on a North Dakota birth certificate, a completed amendment application and supporting documentation are essential. Common errors include misspelled names or incorrect dates.
Submit a sworn statement detailing the error and providing accurate information, alongside a copy of your valid photo identification. The North Dakota Department of Health reviews submissions, verifying accuracy before issuing an amended certificate. Processing times vary, so patience is key throughout this process.
Adding or Changing Information
Adding or changing information on a North Dakota birth certificate, such as a parent’s name, typically requires a court order establishing the legal change. This is particularly crucial for paternity acknowledgments or name changes post-birth.
Submit the court order alongside a completed amendment application and supporting identification. The Vital Records section carefully reviews legal documentation to ensure compliance before updating the certificate. Expect processing times to be longer for these requests due to the legal verification needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Many applicants inquire about the turnaround time; standard processing currently takes 4-6 weeks, but expedited options may be available for an additional fee. Another common question concerns acceptable identification – a valid photo ID is essential.
Regarding parental information, both parents’ details are requested if available. If a parent is deceased, providing a death certificate is helpful. Finally, clarification on fees is frequent; current costs are detailed on the official Vital Records website.
Resources and Contact Information
For direct assistance, the North Dakota Department of Health – Vital Records division is the primary resource. Their website provides downloadable forms, fee schedules, and detailed instructions. You can reach them via phone at (701) 328-2311 during business hours for personalized support.
Useful links include the official state website and frequently updated FAQs. Remember to consult these resources before submitting your application to ensure a swift and accurate process.
North Dakota Department of Health – Vital Records
The North Dakota Department of Health’s Vital Records section manages all birth certificate requests within the state. They are the official custodians of these crucial records, ensuring their security and accessibility to authorized individuals. Contacting them directly provides the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding application procedures, fees, and processing times.
Their dedicated team assists applicants with any questions or concerns, streamlining the process for obtaining a certified copy of a North Dakota birth certificate.

Useful Links and Phone Numbers
For direct assistance with your North Dakota birth certificate application, the Vital Records section can be reached at (701) 328-2311. Their website, https://www.health.nd.gov/vital-records, offers downloadable forms, detailed instructions, and frequently asked questions.

This online resource is invaluable for navigating the application process efficiently. Additional support and information regarding identification requirements can also be found on their official webpage, ensuring a successful outcome.
Understanding North Dakota Birth Certificate Laws
North Dakota Century Code Title 43-04 governs birth certificates, outlining eligibility, access restrictions, and amendment procedures. Generally, birth records are confidential for 100 years, limiting access primarily to the individual named on the certificate, immediate family, or legal representatives.
Specific statutes detail acceptable identification, application fees, and the legal process for correcting errors or adding information. Understanding these laws ensures compliance and a successful application process.
















































































