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Oregon Health Authority

Order a Birth Certificate

Oregon State Vital Records is offering appointments for in-person visits to ORDER vital records. Click HERE to schedule your appointment.


In-person customer assistance to CHANGE vital records is not available.
For more information on how to make changes to a record contact the  Amendment Unit at CHS.Amendments@oha.oregon.gov.

According to Oregon law, access to birth records is restricted for 100 years after the date of the birth. 

Those wanting to order a birth certificate must complete an application process and prove their eligibility. For more information, see ORS 432.380.


Oregon Center for Health Statistics has received an increased number of calls about third-party vendors selling birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates. These companies charge customers high fees to “process” or “help apply” for certificates issued from the Oregon Center for Health Statistics.

For the fastest service, without high fees, we encourage customers to order certified copies only from the Oregon Center for Health Statistics, your local Oregon county health department, or through our contracted vendor VitalChek.

If you have ordered through one of these third-party companies and would like to file a consumer complaint, contact the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection or call 1-877-877-9392.



    Checklist to Order a Birth Certificate

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    Be at Least 18 Years Old or 15 if Ordering Your Own Certificate.
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    Meet Eligibility Requirement to Receive the Certificate and, if Necessary, Provide Proof of Eligibility.

    See the following for information about what relationships are eligible to order birth certificates and documentation that may be required. If you are not eligible, see the Notarized Permission to Pick up Certificate Form below this list. Additional documents may be required.

    ​Self:

    If the name on your ID matches the name of the child and you are at least 15 years old, nothing else is required. If not, you will be asked to submit documentation of a legal name change such as a copy of your marriage certificate, a court ordered name change, or other legal documents to show the name changing.​​​

    ​Parent:

    If the name on your ID matches one of the parents named on the certificate, nothing else is required.


    Stepparent:

    If the child is under 18 years of age and you are still married to the parent on the certificate, you will need a state-issued marriage or domestic partnership certificate (not a commemorative certificate, but a legal vital record certificate from the state) AND another recent document that names both you and your spouse and is dated within 30 days of your date of application. 

    Examples of the second document can include a joint utility or mortgage bill, bank statement, or tax filing. A marriage certificate cannot be used as the only evidence that you are the current spouse because it only proves that you were once married. 

    Otherwise, you are not eligible unless you can prove eligibility as an Authorized Representative.


    Grandparent:

    A copy of your child’s birth certificate that names you as a parent and who is named as a parent on the certificate you are requesting is required.​​

    ​Child:

    A copy of your birth certificate that names the child named on the certificate as your parent is required


    Grandchild:

    A copy of your birth certificate AND a copy of your parent’s birth certificate that names the child as a parent is required.​

    ​

    Sibling:

    A copy of your birth certificate that shows a shared parent with the child is required.​

    Spouse / Registered Domestic Partner:​

    A copy of your state-issued marriage or domestic partnership certificate (not a commemorative certificate, but a legal vital record certificate from the state) is required.​

    Legal Guardia​n:

    A valid copy of court guardianship papers naming you as legal guardian of the child is required.​


    Legal Representative:

    ​"Legal representative" means a licensed attorney representing the registrant or other qualified applicant. ORS 432.005(21).

    ​

    A valid copy of court records or legal documentation that authorizes you to act on behalf of the child or another eligible person OR a statement on company letterhead explaining who you represent and their relationship to the child is required.

    ​

    If you are representing another person,​ documents that prove their eligibility will also be required.

    ​

    Authorized Representative:

    A notarized document that authorizes you to act on behalf of the child or another eligible person is required. A standard permission form that can be notarized is accessible in English and Spanish and should accompany the order form.

    ​

    A Power of Attorney that authorizes you to act on behalf of the child or another eligible person is also acceptable.


    If you are representing another person, documents that prove their eligibility will also be​ ​equired.​​

    Government Agency:

    "Government Agency" means a unit of federal, state, local or tribal government.​ORS 432.005(12).

    ​

    An ID card issued by your government agency that contains your full name and photograph is required and either:​


    ​​a. ​​A letter from a government agency (on official letterhead) citing the agency's need for the certificate in order to conduct official duties,​​​


    OR


    ​​b. A valid copy of court records or legal documentation that authorizes you to act on behalf of the child or another eligible person.​​​

    Other Family:

    Aunt/Uncle, Niece/Nephew, Cousin, Stepchild, Stepsibling.

    You are not eligible unless you can prove eligibility through another relationship listed abovesuch Legal Guardian or ​Authorized Representative.

    ​

    Ex-spouse, ex- or un-registered domestic partner, romantic partner, fiancée, common-la​​w spouse:​

    You are not eligible unless you can prove eligibility through another relationship​ listed above such ​as an Authorized Representative.

    ​A Notarized Permission to Pick up Certificate Form allows someone who is eligible to receive a vital record certificate to grant permission to order or pick up a certificate for someone who is not eligible.

     

    The form requires notarized permission and the notarized​ permission form can only be used once within a year of being signed. 


    This form is available in English and Spanish and should accompany the order form.​

    ​If submitting your order online or by phone, you will use your date of birth and name to generate a quiz to screen your identity. If you fail the identity check, you must provide a copy of acceptable proof of ID.​ 


    If submitting your order in person, you will use your date of birth and name to generate a quiz to screen your identity. You must provide acceptable proof of ID when receiving your order.


    ​​Acceptable Proof of ID​

    ​If submitting your order by mail or drop box, provide a copy of acceptable proof of ID with your order form.

    ​Important:​​

    • Words must be legible and photo must be clear.

    • Expired documents are not acceptable.

    Any ​ONE ​of the following documents are acceptable:
    ​

    1. ​Current, valid driver's license, permit, or ID card.

    2. Current, valid passport or passport card with photo.

    3. Tribal Membership or ID card with photo and address  ​(without photo accepted as one of three pieces of ID).
      ​​
    4. US Armed Services ID Card with photo.

    5. Current student body card with name and photo (high school students only).

    6. Consulate Card (Matrícula Consular) with photo and address.

    7. Citizen ID with photo.

    8. Permanent Resident Card with photo.
      ​
    9. State or federal government ID badge with photo.

    OR...
    ​

    Any THREE of the following documents, as long as at least one shows your current​ address:

    1. ​​Selective Service Card or military discharge paper (must be original).

    2. US Immigration or naturalization papers.

    3. Concealed weapon permit with photo.

    4. Official papers issued by courts of record which include date of birth.

    5. Official corrections department or parole papers showing date of birth and full name.

    6. Vehicle registration or title.

    7. Personalized check or savings account passbook.

    8. Monthly banking or mortgage account statement (Document must be no more than 30 days old).

    9. Pistol or firearms permit.

    10. State hunting or fishing license.

    11. Recent utility or other bill with current address (Document must be no more than 30 days old).

    12. Recent paycheck stub or paycheck (official company type only). (Document must be no more than 30 days old.)

    13. Company identification card.

    14. Voter registration card issued by a county elections department.

    15. Valid food stamp, welfare, or unemployment identification.

    16. Medical or hospital insurance card.

    17. Tax statements – W-2 forms, etc.

    18. Auto insurance policy.

    19. Union membership card.

    20. Rental Agreement that displays the rental property header/logo, is the current property of ​​​residence, is signed by the property manager, and shows that ID verification has taken place.​

    If​ there are differences between information provided and information on the record, or questions about the validity of any document, staff are authorized to request additional information or documents.

    A printable version of the identifying documents list is available in both ​​English and Spanish.

    ​Full Image or Computer Issued: Which One Do I​ Select?


    There are two types of birth certificates issued from Oregon Vital Records:

    • Computer Issued Certificate - $25 (also called Short form)

    • Full Image Birth Certificate - $30 (also called Long form)

    Important:

     

    If you submit your order online, by phone, or in person, the system will automatically determine whether you need a computer issued or full image certificate.

    (Based on what year the person on the record was born and the reason you state for needing the certificate such as school enrollment or dual citizenship.) For a few reason options, it will ask you to make a selection, but most are pre-determined.

     

    If ordering by Mail or by Drop Box, the following information will help you decide which certificate(s) to select on the paper application.​​

    ​​

    ​​


    2008 or Later

    If you are requesting a birth certificate for someone born in 2008 or later, you MUST choose the computer issued certificate.

     

    Computer Issued Birth Certificates (2008 or later)

     

    For those born in 2008 or later, computer issued birth certificates include ALL the data filed at the time of birth including the following: 

    • Full name of child

    • Date of birth

    • Sex of child

    • Time of birth

    • Name of hospital or birth facility

    • Full names of parents

    • Pare​nts' dates of birth or ages

    • Mother's address

    • Certifier Signature 

    Works for all legal needs.

     

     

    Births before 2008
    ​

    If the person on the birth certificate was born before 2008, you can choose between these two options.


    Computer Issued Birth Certificate (pre 2008)

     

    For those born before 2008, computer issued certificates included limited information from the birth record.


    • Full name of child

    • Date of birth

    • Sex of child

    • Full name of parents 

    These computer issued certificates work for most legal needs such as:


    • School enrollment

    • School sports

    • Driver's license

    • Documentation for cruises

    • Passport application (Important: If amendments have been made to your birth record, submit the full image birth certificate when applying for a passport)

     

    Full Image Birth Certificates

    ​​

    These are copies of the original paper or microfilm birth record from the hospital or amended birth record.

     

    Order the Full Image Certificate if you:


    • Want all of the details of your birth record.

    • Plan to use the birth certificate outside the U.S.

    • Need to get an authentication document from the Oregon Secretary of State (apostille)

    • Need more detailed information for genealogy research

    ​

    Works for all legal needs.

     

    You may order one or more of each type of certificate if you want the option to have a certificate with limited personal information and one with all the information from the birth record. 

     

    Note:

    If you are ordering a birth certificate for a person born before 2008 and list “authentication/apostille" or “dual citizenship" as the reason for ordering the certificate, you must select the full image option. If you select the computer issued option by mistake, you will be sent a communication stating that the correct certificate that you need is the full image option and be asked to send in an additional $5.00 to cover the cost.​

    ​Information about Child listed on birth record

    • Full name of child - first, middle, and last

    • Date of birth

    • Place of birth - city and/or county

    • ​Mother/Parent A's legal name at their birth/prior to first marriage first, middle, and last;

    • Father/Parent B's legal name(if listed) - first, middle, and last. 

    Information about you as the applicant (person ordering the record)

    • Your relationship to the person named on the record (Choose "Self" if you are ordering for yourself)

    • Your reason for ordering the certificate

    • Your name and mailing address

    • Your contact information (daytime telephone number and/or email) 

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    Complete the Order
    (See specific order methods below for information on how to order including links and order forms.)

    • Online
    • By Phone
    • By Mail In or Drop Box
    • In Person
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    Pay Fee(s)
    (See “Ways to Order a Certificate" below.)



62 px Ways to Order a Certificate

Select an order option below and open the drop down menu for more information, forms and payment instructions.

You ​can order on the web at www.vitalchek.com at any time.


Cost:​​​​

$25.00 Initial record search fee and first certificate

$  7.00 Expedite fee

$11.25 VitalChek vendor fee and security fee for applicant ​I​​D ​​verification and review.

$43.25 Total nonrefundable fee for the first certificate ​


​Additional Fees:

$5 per certificate if ordering a full image birth certificate.

 ​​​

$20.00  UPS Next Day Air (USA excluding AK, HI, and PR).​ Other locations have additional fees.

  • Default selection when ordering. 

  • ​Must be available​ to sign for the certificate(s) if you choose this option.

  • Does not guarantee immediate delivery. We may need additional documentation before releasing a record.

​​$25.00 for each additional certificate ordered.

​

​Once a search for a record has been started, orders cannot be cancelled, and fees cannot be refunded.

​

Payment:

All major credit or debit cards. Most prepaid debit cards accepted. Government issued benefit cards are not accepted.​


Processing Time: ​

Typically processed within three workdays (Monday through Friday). VitalChek will forward orders to Oregon Vital Records within 24 hours for processing after all the information is provided and any documentation requirements are complete.

The following may cause delays with processing the order:

  • Inaccurate information was submitted on the application

  • Inaccurate or incomplete eligibility documents were provided

  • The applicant who submitted the order is not eligible

  • An amendment on the record is being processed

  • The record is not on file 

If something additional is needed from you, we will reach out to you by mail or secure email. Please check your junk email folder. If you haven't received your order within the allotted timeline listed in the order options, please contact us at 971-673-1190 for assistance.​

 ​

Once the order has been processed, it will then be shipped to the customer.

 

Shipping:

When ordering through vitalchek.com, your shipping method defaults to UPS Next Day Air, which is an additional $20 fee. If your request is to be delivered by UPS Next Day Air, you must be available to sign for the certificate(s).




To request shipping by regular mail (United States Post Office), you may​ click the small down arrow on the Shipping Method box and choose the Regular Mail option. This box appears on the page where you enter your home and shipping address.



At any point before finalizing your order, you may click the Back button at the bottom of the screen to return to this page and change this setting.

If you have questions regarding delivery times or costs, please call VitalChek at 1-888-896-4988.​​


Other Vendors on the Internet:

The Oregon Vital Record office has no agreements with any vendors except the VitalChek Network.

​​If you use another vendor on the Internet, you will pay additional fees without receiving fast and efficient processing of your certificate request. We have no control over what fees other web vendors charge, nor can we guarantee the confidentiality of any vital record data provided to them.

​Phone


Place your order by calling VitalChek at 1-888-896-4988 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

​​​

Cost:

$25.00 Initial record search fee and first certificate

​$  7.00 Expedite fee

$12.95 VitalChek vendor fee and security fee for applicant ID verification and review.

$44.95 Total nonrefundable fee for the first certificate

​​

​​Additional Fees:

​$5 per certificate if ord​ering a full image birth certificate.

$2​0.00   UPS Next Day Air (USA excluding AK, HI, and PR). Other locations have additional fees.

  • ​Default selection when ordering

  • Must be available to sign for the certificates(s) if you choose this option.

  • Does not guarantee immediate delivery. We may need additional documentation before releasing a record.​


$25.00 ​​for each additional certificate ordered.

​​​

​​The exact date of birth is required for birth record orders unless the record is more than 100 years old. ​​

​​

Once a search for a record has been started, orders cannot be cancelled, and fees cannot be refunded.


Payment:

All major credit or debit cards. Most prepaid debit cards accepted. Government issued benefit cards are not accepted.​


Processing Time:

Typically processed within three workdays (Monday through Friday). VitalChek will forward orders to Oregon Vital Records within 24 hours for processing after all the information is provided and any documentation requirements are complete.

​

The following may cause delays with processing the order:

  • Inaccurate information was submitted on the application

  • Inaccurate or incomplete eligibility documents were provided

  • The applicant who submitted the order is not eligible

  • An amendment on the record is being processed

  • The record is not on file 

If something additional is needed from you, we will reach out to you by mail or secure email. Please check your junk email folder. If you haven't received your order within the allotted timeline listed in the order options, please contact us at 971-673-1190 for assistance.​

​

Once the order has been processed, it will then be shipped to the customer.


Shipping:

​You have the option to ship your certificate(s) by regular mail with the United States Postal Service (USPS) or with UPS Next Day Air. If you select UPS Next Day Air, you must be available to sign for the certificate(s).

If you have questions regarding delivery times or costs, please call VitalChek at 1-888-896-4988. ​

Cost:​​

$25.00​ Initial nonrefundable record search fee and first certificate 


Additional Fees:

$5 per certificate if ordering a full image birth certificates. 


$25.00 for each additional certificate ordered.


The exact date of birth is required for birth record orders unless the record is more than 100 years old. ​​​


Once a search for a record has been started, orders cannot be cancelled, and fees cannot be refunded.​​

​​

Payment:​

No cash. Make payment by money order or check.

​

Make payment out to:​

​

​​​OHA/Vital Records​

​

Please do not staple any documents or payments to the order form​.


Send your signed order form(s), fees, copy of ID, and any other necessary​ documents ​​to:​​​​

​​

Oregon Vital Records​​
PO Box 14050​

Portland OR 97293


Processing Tim​​e:

Please allow approximately 5 - 7 weeks processing time for all orders from the date the order is received in our office.​

The following may cause delays with processing the order:

  • Inaccurate information was submitted on the application

  • Inaccurate or incomplete eligibility documents were provided

  • The applicant who submitted the order is not eligible

  • An amendment on the record is being processed

  • The record is not on file 

If something additional is needed from you, we will reach out to you by mail or secure email. Please check your junk email folder. If you haven't received your order within the allotted timeline listed in the order options, please contact us at 971-673-1190 for assistance.​

​

Once the order has been processed, it will then be shipped to the customer. Corrections or amendments to records will add additional time for processing. 


Shipping:

Certificate orders placed by mail are shipped by regular mail with the United States Postal Service (USPS).

 

If you need the certificate(s) shipped in a way other than by USPS, enclose a pre-addressed, pre-paid delivery envelope. ​​

​​

Drop off your signed order form(s), fees, copy of ID, and any other necessary documents in a sealed envelope in the secure drop box.


Cost:

$25.00 Initial nonrefundable record search fee and first certificate​


Additional Fees:

$5 per certificate if ordering a full image birth certificate.


​$25.00 for each additional certificate ordered.​

​

​​​​Exact date of birth is required for birth record orders unless the record is more than 100 years old. ​

​


Once a search for a record has been started, orders cannot be cancelled, and fees cannot be refunded.​


Payment:

No cash. Make payment by money order or check.

​

Make payment out to:


OHA/Vital Records​


Please do not staple any documents or payments to the order form.

Location of Drop Box:

​

Oregon Vital Records
800 NE Oregon Street 
Portland OR 97232


Located at the entrance by the west door (located in the parking lot)


 Drop Box.pngDirections to Vital Record


Processing Time:

Please allow approximately 5 - 7 weeks processing time for all orders from the date the order is received in our office. Materials are collected from the drop box Monday – Friday. ​

​

The following may cause delays with processing the order:

  • Inaccurate information was submitted on the application

  • Inaccurate or incomplete eligibility documents were provided

  • The applicant who submitted the order is not eligible

  • An amendment on the record is being processed

  • The record is not on file

If something additional is needed from you, we will reach out to you by mail or secure email. Please check your junk email folder. If you haven't received your order within the allotted timeline listed in the order options, please contact us at 971-673-1190 for assistance.​


Once the order has been processed, it will then be shipped to the customer. Corrections or amendments to records will add additional time for ​processing.


Shipping: 

Certificate orders placed by mail are shipped by regular mail with the United States Postal Service (USPS).

 

If you need the certificate(s) shipped in a way other than by USPS, enclose a pre-addressed, pre-paid delivery envelope. 

 

Informational Slides / Videos About the Vital Records Drop Box:

Register for an Appointment to Order Your Certificate(s) In-Person:

Appointments are 30 minutes in length and are available from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with the last appointment starting at 3:30 p.m. Pacific Time. Appointments are for ordering certificates only.

Click Here to Schedule an In-Person Appointment. 

No amendments can be made at an In-Person appointment. 


Cost:

$25.00 Initial record search fee and first certificate       

$  3.00 Identity Authentication fee

$28.00 Total nonrefundable fee for the first certificate

Additional Fees:

$5 per certificate if ordering a full image birth certificate. 

​

$25.00 for each additional certificate ​ordered.


Exact date of birth is required for birth record orders unless the record is more than 100 years old. ​​


Once a search for a record has been started, orders cannot be cancelled, and fees cannot be refunded.​


Payment:

Payment can be made by major credit card, debit card, cash or money order. If a personal or business check is used, it must be accepted by the electronic funds transfer software (EFT).

A credit union ATM is available on the first floor in the building. 


​Address:​​


Portland State Office Building
800 NE Oregon Street
Portland, Oregon 97232


Those who have scheduled an appointment should check in ten minutes early in the lobby of the first floor. The public entrance to the building is located on Oregon Street between 7th and 9th Avenues. The Oregon Vital Records check in desk is located immediately to the right of the public entrance. ​Driving Directions.​


Note: 

Street and lot parking for the immediate area are pay per hour parking.

​

Processing Time:

Appointments are scheduled for 30 minutes. Customers will enter their order at a self-service kiosk. 

​

If something additional is needed from you, we will reach out to you by mail or secure email. Please check your junk email folder. If you haven't received your order within the allotted timeline listed in the order options, please contact us at 971-673-1190 for assistance.


Some full image records will not be available the same day but will be mailed or made available for pick up the next workday.


Important:

Vital Records Amendments counter is closed, there are no in-person amendments being processed while you wait. 


Those ordering must show a valid photo ID or alternative identifying documents as well as any required documentation to prove eligibility. If you cannot provide information or documents, we recommend that you have another eligible family member order your record for you. The person who comes to the office to order the record must be eligible to order it. (See above if there are questions about your eligibility.)

Payment can be made by credit card, debit card, cash or money order. If a personal or business check is used, it must be accepted by the electronic funds transfer software (EFT). A credit union ATM is available on the first floor in the building. 

Click Here to Schedule an In-Person Appointment.​


Infographic of Order Types (NO LINKS) (With Appt).jpg

    Additional Sources for Vital Records


    ​Some vital records that have become public records are available as uncertified copies from the Oregon State Archives in Salem for a small fee.

    Oregon State Archives

    800 Summer Street NE,

    Salem, Oregon 97310 ​

    (503) 373-0701


    Many countries require proof of the validity of Oregon birth, death, marriage and divorce records. To get a document authenticated, also known as an apostille, you must first get a certified copy of the record.

    Birth or death certificates are available from the Oregon Center for Health Statistics or the Oregon county where the event took place. The certificate must be an original certified copy and cannot be a photocopy.

    ​

    Original certified copies of marriage or dissolution of marriage (divorce) or dissolution of Oregon Registered Domestic Partnership are available from the Oregon Center for Health Statistics.

    Once you have the certificate, it must then be sent to the Oregon Secretary of State/Corporate Division for authentication. See their website for more information about the rest of the authentication process including order forms and fees. ​

    In order for either of these certificates to be issued, a fetal death report must have been registered with Oregon Vital Records.

    Oregon law requires the filing of a fetal death report if the fetal weight is 350 grams or more or if the fetus completed 20 weeks of gestation.


    If the fetus did not meet one of these thresholds at the time of death, parents may request the birthing facility to file a fetal death report when the law does not require one to be filed in order to obtain a Commemorative Certificate of Stillbirth.


    Commemorative Certificate of Stillbirth

    Commemorative Certificates of Stillbirth are available to the biological parents when a fetal death record is on file for a stillbirth that occurred after January 1, 1999. This is a commemorative certificate and not a legal record. It is printed on parchment paper and displays the name of the child, the parents, the date of delivery, city, county of delivery, and the state seal.

    Example of Commemorative Certificate of Stillbirth  

    ​


    The fee for this certificate is $25. To order by mail or by using the Drop Box*, download and complete the Commemorative Certificate of Stillbirth Order Form.  


    Certified Copy of Fetal Death

    Parents and other eligible parties (ORS 432.380(2)(c)(B)(iv)) may also order a Certified Copy of Fetal Death for legal purposes (examples include tax or insurance reasons or if the remains are to be removed from the state). The Certified Copy of Fetal Death is printed on special security paper and looks similar to an official birth or death certificate.

    The fee for this certificate is $25. To order a Certified Copy of Fetal Death by mail or by using the Drop Box*, download and complete the Certified Copy of Fetal Death Order Form​​. 

    * The Drop Box is located at the west door of Oregon Vital Records (located in the parking lot)
     800 NE Oregon Street   |   Portland, OR 97232

    A birth certificate is an important legal document. It is needed to apply for other forms of identification (such as a driver's license, Social Security card, or state ID card) that you need in order to:

    • Work

    • Get a place to live

    • Apply for and receive public assistance, and

    • Remove other barriers​


    Since July 1, 2018, individuals who are homeless have been able to contact an Oregon homeless service provider or organization participating in the program to get help ordering their Oregon birth certificate.​

    Frequently Asked Questions (updated 10/28/2020)
    ​

    Individuals who are homeless can contact an Oregon homeless service provider or organization participating in the program to get their birth certificate from another state. 

    Which homeless service providers or organizations are participating in the grant program?

    Organizations participating in the program are located in 16 counties. They can help homeless individuals get their birth certificate for no cost. You can go to any one of the homeless service providers or organizations to get help.

    ​To find one near you:

    How do I get my Oregon birth certificate free of charge if I am homeless?​

    Go to one of the participating homeless service providers or organizations. 

    They can:

    • Help you complete the required forms

    • Give you information on what documents are needed

    • Provide you a check for payment

    • Prepare the affidavit for "Homeless Status for Free-Exempt Certified Copy of Birth Certificate" to include with your order

    You will need to mail your order form, check, documentation(s) and completed application to Oregon Vital Records. Vital Records will mail your birth certificate to you in care of the address on the order form.

    Can I get my birth certificate free of charge if I go to the Oregon Vital Records Office in Portland or to the County Vital Records Office?

    No. Persons who are homeless and who want to get their birth certificate under this program must mail in their order form, check, documentation and letter to Oregon Vital Records. Please contact a participating homeless service provider or organization to get started.

    What forms do I need to complete to get my Oregon birth record?

    You need to complete the Oregon Birth Record Order Form. Include the original affidavit for “Homeless Status for a Fee-Exempt Certified Copy of Birth Certificate." Please go to one of the participating homeless service providers or organizations to get the affidavit and for help completing the forms.

    Do I have to provide proof of identity?

    Yes. A list of acceptable proofs of identity ​​is available on all ordering pages with in the "Checklist to Order" at the top of this web page, number 2, "Provide Proof of ID"​ drop down. Participating homeless service providers and organizations can help you get your acceptable proofs of identity.

    If you don't have acceptable proofs of identity, the homeless service provider or organization will help you work with Oregon Vital Records to determine what information is needed to release your birth certificate.

    Can I get free birth certificates for my family?

    No. The grant program was established for individuals who are homeless to get their own birth certificate free of charge. This grant program does not provide funds to get family members' birth certificates.

    Where will my birth certificate be mailed?

    Your birth certificate will be mailed to the address on your order form. The envelope will be addressed to you since it is your birth certificate.

    Will I be able to use the birth certificate to get other documents such as an Oregon identification card or driver's license?​

    Yes. A birth certificate is a legal document used to establish identity. It shows who you are, and when and where you were born. Your birth certificate is a legal document and is confidential. Be sure to keep it in a safe place.

    Can I get my birth certificate if I was born in another state? 
    Check with the state where you were born​ to find out the fee for getting your birth record and what documentation is needed.  You will need to provide payment to the state for the birth record.  Payment must be provided by one of the participating Oregon homeless service providers.


    I am homeless, but live in another state, can I get my Oregon birth certificate?​

    Go to one of the participating homeless service providers or organizations. 

    They can:

    • Help you complete the birth record order form

    • Give you information on what documents are needed

    • Provide you a check for payment

    • Prepare the affidavit for "Homeless Status for Free-Exempt Certified Copy of Birth Certificate" to include with your order

    Can additional homeless service providers enroll in the program?​​​

    Homeless service providers throughout the state were contacted about the program, and those who chose to participate are currently enrolled. All funds have been distributed. Future funding for the program will need to be authorized by the Oregon legislature. Please contact the Birth Certificate Program with the Social Determinants of Health Unit, o​​​hasdohteam@odhsoha.oregon.gov, if you are interested in participating in this program in the future.​

    ​Legality of Documents

    ​

    Determining if Your Record is Valid and Acceptable for Legal Purposes

    All certified birth, death, marriage, divorce and Oregon registered domestic partnership certificates currently being issued by the Oregon Vital Records Office are printed on intaglio banknote paper with the seal of the State of Oregon in the lower left corner and the seal of the Oregon Health Authority/Public Health Division in the lower right corner.

    The border and Oregon seal should have a perceptible "rough" feel to it. Any erasures or additions to the record invalidate it. Because any document that has been photocopied could be altered and then recopied to disguise changes, a copy you make on plain paper will not be accepted by state and federal agencies as a legal document.

    In the past, certified copies have been made on a wide variety of paper types. All of the older types of certified copies can be identified by the raised, notary-type seal. If you have a photocopy and cannot feel the raised seal, most agencies will not accept it as a certified copy since they cannot tell whether the document has been altered.

    ​​

    Birth Cards

    Oregon no longer issues birth cards. Birth cards only list the registrant’s name, date of birth, place of birth and certificate number.
    Many agencies will not accept them as proof of identity, because they do not include parent names and the cards do not include all the security features found on certificates.

    ​

    Other Documents That Most Federal and State Agencies Will Not Accept:

    • Bureau of the Census – Notice of Birth Registration

    • County issued document titled “Birth Abstract” (no longer issued)

    • County issued document titled “Death Abstract”

    ​Most county vital records offices in Oregon issue birth and death records for six months following the date of the event. You will find vital records offices in your county health department or your county clerk's office. 

    ​

    To locate an Oregon county vital records office, please see the Oregon County Health Department Directory.​

    ​The Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division has adopted rule OAR 333-011-0338 relating to fees for vital records. This rule is effective on November 1, 2021 and applies to requests for records received on and after June 1, 2021. It is intended to relieve the burden of certain fees for copies of and searches for vital records for Oregonians who have experienced loss of property or life due to or associated with a state or federal emergency declaration.

    The Center for Health Statistics Vital Records office may provide up to three (3) certified copies of a birth, death, marriage, divorce, domestic partnership or dissolution of domestic partnership record with a zero fee to eligible requests in connection with a state or federal emergency declaration.

    Applicants must state the reason for ordering the record(s) as “Emergency Declaration" to qualify for the zero fee.


    Frequently Asked Question​s:

    Updated November 1, 2021

    Printable version in English and Spanish

    What does this mean?

    The Center for Health Statistics Vital Records office may provide up to three (3) certified copies of a birth, death, marriage, divorce, domestic partnership or dissolution of domestic partnership record with a zero fee to eligible requests in connection with a state or federal emergency declaration.

    -Or-

    Oregon State County Vital Records offices, within the first 6 months of an event, may provide up to three (3) certified copies of death or birth records with a zero fee to eligible requests in connection with a state or federal emergency declaration.

    When does the rule go into effect?

    The rule is effective on November 1, 2021 and applies to records requests received on and after June 1, 2021.

    Where can I find a list of qualifying Emergency Declarations?

    A list of Oregon Emergency Declarations can be found here: https://www.oregon.gov/gov/admin/Pages/executive-orders.aspx

    How do individuals get certificates free of charge?

    To be eligible, individuals must have experienced loss of property or life due to or associated with a state or federal emergency declaration. When ordering certified copies of vital records, the person ordering the certificates must state the reason for ordering the record(s) as “Emergency Declaration."

    What happens if I order by mail or place an order in the Drop Box?

    Complete and sign the order form. Include your valid identification. State on the order form the reason for needing the record as “Emergency Declaration." It is important that this information is noted on the order, so our office is aware that a fee is not included. We may request additional documentation if it appears the request for records is not in connection with an emergency declaration.

    What happens if I order over the internet or by phone?

    If you are ordering via the internet or phone, the certificate fee will be $0.00. However, the expedite fee and vendor fee will still apply to the order. When completing the order, state the reason for needing the record as “Emergency Declaration." It is important that this information is noted on the order, so the certificate qualifies for the zero fee. We may request additional documentation if it appears the request for records is not in connection with an emergency declaration.

    Are other fees for vital records being charged?

    Yes, all other fees such as expediting a request for an order or amending a record will still be charged. 

    Is the certificate fee not being charged for all orders for certified copies?

    No. This is only for certified copies of vital records in connection with a state or federal emergency declaration. The person requesting the certified copies must state that the reason they need the record is “Emergency Declaration." We may request additional documentation for requests for records not in connection with an emergency declaration.

    Is identification still required?

    Yes. Identification is required by law for all requests for vital records when submitting your order.

    Can anyone get certified copies with zero fees?

    No. Only individuals eligible to receive the requested vital records as outlined in law can order the certificates. Only those who experienced loss of property or life due to a state or federal emergency declaration are eligible to get the certificates with a zero fee charge.

    How many certified copies can I get for the zero fee?

    Eligible orders may receive up to three (3) certified copies of each type of record (birth, death, marriage, divorce, domestic partnership or dissolution of domestic partnership record). Make sure to specify how many certificates you want when ordering.

    If I order one death record, one birth record, and one marriage record, does this count as the three zero fee certificates?

    You can get three certified copies of each record type at the time of ordering. In this scenario, you can get two more certificates of each record type with a zero fee charge. You will need to submit an order for each type of record. The person ordering must be eligible to order the record, state the reason for needing the record as “Emergency Declaration."

    Do I have to order them at the same time?

    No. You can get up to three (3) zero fee certified copies of any record if the records are ordered in connection with a state or federal emergency declaration.

    Does this apply to marriage and divorce records issued by the County Clerks and Circuit Courts?

    No. This only applies to certified copies of marriage and divorce records issued from the State Vital Records office.

    Where can I get more information?

    For more information on how to order a vital record go to: www.healthoregon.org/chs or call 971-673-1190. ​

    ​If you were born in another country to parents who are U.S. citizens, or if a U.S. citizen died or was married abroad prior to 1987, you may obtain consular reports documenting these events from the U.S. Department of State. For ordering information visit the Bureau of Consular Affairs website.​


    The Bureau of Consular Affairs also provides address lists of foreign consular offices​​ in the United States. These offices may provide help if you are not a U.S. citizen and need assistance in ordering a vital record from another country.

    ​​Order Information for other states is available from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention​ including:

    • Addresses for State Vital Record Offices​

    • Phone numbers for Vital Record Offices

    • Links to other state and county vital record websites