How do you obtain a copy of your birth certificate in Iowa?

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, the state of Iowa has partnered with a private company to provide Iowa birth certificates and other certified state records. To obtain a copy of a birth certificate, those born in Iowa can make a request by telephone, in person or via the Internet. Once the request is made, the company, Vital Check Network, Inc. processes the request, sending the record directly to the requester.

1. Request a birth certificate by phone

   Call the listed toll-free number on the Iowa Department of Health Services website to make a request for a certified copy of a birth certificate by phone. As of 2014, the number is answered from 6:00 am CST through 7:00 pm CST every weekday, excluding holidays. A fee of $20 is required as of 2014, with an additional $13 fee for credit card screening and caller authentication. The fees can be paid using a major credit card, and the certified copy is generally available in 21 business days.

2. Request a birth certificate in person

   Walk-in and request a birth certificate in person at the state vital records office located in the Lucas Building in Des Moines, Iowa. As of 2014, the office is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. CST to 4:45 p.m. CST, excluding holidays. Bring along a current government-issued photo identification for the application process. The birth certificate can be picked up after three business days or mailed to the requester or an entitled person.

3. Make an online request

   Request a copy of a birth certificate online trough the Vital Check website. An additional fee is charged for online requests.

4. Request birth certificate by mail

   Print out the Application for Copy of Birth Certificate found on the Iowa Department of Public Health website, and fill it out completely. A notarized signature is required, along with a photocopy of the requester's ID and a check or money order for the appicalble fee. Mail the documentation to the address listed on the website.