How to Get a New Jersey Birth Certificate
Obtaining a new Jersey birth certificate is an essential step for various reasons, whether it’s for legal purposes, identity verification, or simply for personal records. Whether you’re a resident of New Jersey or a descendant looking to obtain your ancestor’s birth record, this guide will walk you through the process of how to get a new Jersey birth certificate.
First and foremost, you’ll need to determine the type of birth certificate you require. There are two types available: a certified copy and an informational copy. A certified copy is a legal document that can be used for official purposes, such as obtaining a passport or a driver’s license. An informational copy is for personal use only and cannot be used for legal documentation.
Next, gather the necessary information. To apply for a birth certificate, you’ll need to provide the following details:
- Full name of the person whose birth certificate you’re requesting
- Date of birth
- City and county of birth (if known)
- Your relationship to the person whose birth certificate you’re requesting
- Your contact information (address, phone number, and email)
Once you have all the required information, you can apply for a birth certificate in one of the following ways:
- Online: Visit the New Jersey Department of Health’s official website at https://www.state.nj.us/health/vital/births.shtml and follow the instructions to submit your application online. You’ll need to pay a fee and provide the necessary information.
- By Mail: Download the application form from the New Jersey Department of Health’s website, fill it out, and mail it along with the required payment and supporting documents to the following address:
New Jersey Department of Health
Vital Statistics
P.O. Box 370
Trenton, NJ 08625-0370
- In Person: Visit the New Jersey Department of Health’s Vital Statistics office in Trenton or any local county clerk’s office. You’ll need to fill out an application form, provide the required payment, and present identification.
Keep in mind that there is a fee for obtaining a birth certificate. As of 2021, the fee is $25 for a certified copy and $10 for an informational copy. Payment can be made by check, money order, or credit card (if applying online or by mail).
After submitting your application, it typically takes about 7-10 business days to receive your birth certificate. However, this time frame may vary depending on the volume of requests and other factors.
Remember that if you’re applying for a birth certificate for someone born before 1940, you may need to visit the county clerk’s office in the county where the birth occurred, as the state office may not have records from that time period.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining a new Jersey birth certificate. Whether you’re in need of a certified copy for legal purposes or simply looking to preserve your family history, this guide should help you navigate the process with ease.
