Maryland Birth Records

How to Order Birth Certificates in Maryland

Birth certificates for the state of Maryland are handled by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Division of Vital Records.  Their records begin in August 1898. 

Please note that you are only able to order birth certificates for yourself, your spouse, or a child for whom you are the parent, guardian or legal representative.  You must be at least 18 yeas of age and provide proof of your identity in the form of a copy of a valid government-issued photo ID, such as your driver’s license, state-issued identification card, government issued employment identification, or passport. 

Enlarge the copy of your ID and lighten it if needed to ensure it is clear and readable.  Sign underneath it to verify that you are the requestor.  If you are not ordering your own birth certificate, please make a notation on the copy of your ID of y our relationship to the person whose birth certificate you are requesting.  Enclose a copy of any legal or supporting documentation such as guardianship papers or marriage license or certificate.

Please download the Maryland birth record application and fill it out and mail with payment and a copy of your photo identification to:

Division of Vital Records
Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
6550 Reisterstown Avenue
P.O. Box 68760
Baltimore, MD 21215-0020

Each copy of a birth certificate is $12.00. If no record is found, the $12.00 fee is not refunded and a Certification of Record Search is issued.

There are no fees for current or former members of the armed forces of the United States; or the surviving spouse or child of the member, if the copy will be used in connection with a claim for a dependent or beneficiary of the member.  Proof of service in the armed services must be presented when a certificate is requested.

Enclose a self-addressed, stamped, legal size envelope to have your birth certificate mailed to you. 

Please do not send cash.  Personal check or certified funds only.

Please call 410-764-3038 prior to mailing to ensure that the fees have not changed since the publication of this document.

You may also present the form, payment, and ID in person to:

The Division of Vital Records
6550 Reisterstown Road
Reisterstown Road Plaza
Baltimore, MD 21215

The hours of operation are 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, and the third Saturday of each month. Beginning in September 2007 the offices will close at noon on Saturday.  Offices are closed on State holidays.

Birth certificates for people born after 1939 can also be obtained via same day service at local health departments in all jurisdictions except Montgomery County, Baltimore City, and Baltimore County. 

If you have any questions, please call 410-764-3038.