How to Apply for a Birth Certificate in Kentucky
Applying for a birth certificate in Kentucky is a straightforward process, but it’s important to gather all the necessary documents and follow the correct steps to ensure a smooth experience. Whether you need a birth certificate for legal, personal, or official purposes, this guide will walk you through the process of obtaining one in the Bluegrass State.
First and foremost, you need to determine the type of birth certificate you require. In Kentucky, there are two types of birth certificates: a “certified” copy and an “informational” copy. A certified copy is a legal document that can be used for official purposes, such as applying for a passport or enrolling in school. An informational copy is a non-certified copy that is used for personal records and cannot be used for legal purposes.
Next, gather the necessary documents. To apply for a birth certificate in Kentucky, you will need to provide the following information:
- Your full name at birth and your current name (if different)
- Your date of birth
- Your place of birth
- The full name of your parents
- Your Social Security number (if you have one)
Once you have gathered all the necessary information, you can apply for a birth certificate in one of the following ways:
- Online: Visit the Kentucky Vital Statistics Office website at https://chfs.ky.gov/vitalstats/birth.htm to apply for a birth certificate online. You will need to create an account and follow the instructions provided.
- In person: Visit your local county clerk’s office or the Kentucky Vital Statistics Office in Frankfort. You can find the contact information for your local county clerk’s office by visiting https://chfs.ky.gov/vitalstats/countyclerk.htm.
- By mail: Send a completed application form, along with a check or money order for the fee, to the Kentucky Vital Statistics Office. You can download the application form from the Kentucky Vital Statistics Office website or obtain one from your local county clerk’s office.
The fee for a birth certificate in Kentucky is $21 for certified copies and $10 for informational copies. Additional fees may apply if you need rush service or a certified copy of a birth certificate that occurred before 1911.
After submitting your application, you can expect to receive your birth certificate within 2-4 weeks. If you need your birth certificate sooner, you can request rush service for an additional fee. Keep in mind that rush service may still take up to 2 weeks to process.
By following these steps, you can easily apply for a birth certificate in Kentucky. Whether you choose to apply online, in person, or by mail, make sure to gather all the necessary documents and information to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
