What to Bring
Your proof of identity must show your legal name and birth date.
If you were born in the United States, bring your birth certificate. Otherwise, you may use your naturalization or citizenship certificate.
If you have a United States passport book or card, you can also use it to prove your identity.
Citizens can usually use one document to prove both identity and citizenship. You may need extra documents if your legal name has changed.
You must use a certified copy of your birth certificate – not an informational one!
A certified copy of your birth certificate has an official raised seal, signature, or special paper.
An informational copy (labeled “informational only”) will not be accepted when you apply for a driver’s license or ID.
How to Get Birth Certificate
Collect Your Information and Documents
You must order your birth certificate from the state where you were born. It does not matter where you live now.
Before you order, make sure you have the information you may need. This usually includes:
- Your full name at birth
- Date of birth
- Sex as listed on your birth certificate
- City and state where you were born
- Mother’s full name (using maiden name)
- Father’s full name (if listed on the birth certificate)
- Your current address (where certificate will be sent for mail or online orders)
- Daytime phone number
- Email address
You may also be asked for your Social Security number to confirm your identity.
Information only, not legal advice.
