Order your official Arizona (AZ) birth certificate replacement or first-time copy online from home. We prepare and file your application, and your certified copy is delivered by mail.
Vital Records Online is a privately owned website and is not affiliated with or operated by any government agency. We provide a secure, guided online service to help customers file applications for certified vital records to the appropriate state or county office. We are listed as an approved third-party vendor by the California Department of Public Health. Blank application forms are available free of charge directly from the relevant government offices. By using our services, you acknowledge and agree to these
Order with confidence
Arizona Birth Certificate
Learn how to order Arizona Birth Certificate from the ADHS-BVR. The current processing time is 5-7 business days, and the state fee is $20.00 for each certified copy (and additional copies). Access to official birth certificate is restricted to the person on record, family members, and authorized third parties.
How to Order an Arizona Birth Certificate
You can order your Arizona birth certificate electronically now through VRO (Vital Records Online) or in person or by mail from the Arizona Department of Health Services - Bureau of Vital Records (ADHS-BVR). Before ordering, review the costs, eligibility terms, required documents, and processing times.
Ordering with VRO
You can order an Arizona birth certificate online through VRO in two simple steps:
Complete the online application and upload your documents.
In-person orders for Arizona birth certificates are only offered at local county health departments' vital record offices. The ADHS-BVR no longer accepts requests at their office. Complete the following steps to request a replacement in person:
Include a money order issued to the "Bureau of Vital Records."
Mail these documents to the following address:
required documents
Arizona Birth Certificate Document Requirements
The Arizona DHS-BVR requires all applicants to provide proof of identity when requesting certified copies of birth records. Review the table below for the required information and documents:
Primary ID Requirements Options
Secondary ID Requirements Options
Drivers License Government-issued ID State ID US Passport
Notarized Application
How to Get an Arizona Birth Certificate Without ID
Cost & fees
Arizona Birth Certificate Fees
The total cost to obtain an Arizona birth certificate will depend on the application method, whether you need to notarize the application to verify your identity, plus the ADHS-BVR's fee of $20.00 for the certified replacement.
State Fee
$20.00
Rush Processing
Not offered
Additional Copy
1 x $20.00
Processing time
Arizona Birth Certificate Processing Time
The current processing and delivery time defined by the ADHS-BVR is 5 to 7 business days; however, the total time it takes to process and receive the birth certificate depends on how you apply, whether you need to notarize your application, and the volume of orders being processed by the ADHS-BVR.
Processing Time
5-7 business days
Rush Processing Time
Not offered
Authorization
Who Can Order an Arizona Birth Certificate?
Arizona is considered a "closed record" state, meaning birth certificates are not public records during a 75-year confidentiality period. Only the person on record and specific eligible parties can request certified copies during this time. All applicants must be 16 years of age or older and provide proof of identity with their application or obtain a notarized signature if they do not have a valid government-issued ID.
Immediate family members can request copies on behalf of the person on record with proof of familial relationship. (birth certificates, certified court documents, or marriage certificates). Other third-party requesters, such as genealogists, must provide proof of legal authority or direct lineage to obtain records during the confidentiality period.
Authorized People
Adoption Agencies
Attorneys
Children
Conservator
Government Agency
Grandchildren
Grandparents
Legal Guardian
Parents
Person on Record
Person Designated by Court Order
Power of Attorney
Siblings
Spouse
Do I Need to Notarize My Arizona Birth Certificate Application?
A notarization is not required when requesting certified copies of an Arizona birth certificate unless the applicant cannot provide an accepted, valid (government-issued) primary ID. This policy applies to all third-party applicants: a notarization is only necessary without a valid primary ID.
Not sure which type of birth certificate you need? Our birth certificate guide explains the differences between certified copies, long form, and short form certificates.
Tracking
Track Your Arizona Birth Certificate Order
After you submit your application and documents electronically through VRO, you can track the status of your application verification and dispatch through the online support portal. You can also monitor your application's journey to the ADHS-BVR office with mail tracking included by VRO.
If you manually send your application packet to the health department, it's recommended to use first-class mail tracking to confirm its arrival. The ADHS-BVR ships all certified documents securely with first-class mail tracking. However, they are not liable for misdirected or lost certificates.
Order Other Arizona Vital Records
Need more than a birth certificate? VitalRecordsOnline helps you order every Arizona vital record through one streamlined application. Whether you're gathering documents for a passport, name change, estate settlement, or family history project, we handle the paperwork, verify everything is complete before submission, and track your order from start to delivery.
Arizona Marriage Certificate — Required for name changes, spousal benefits, visa applications, divorce filings, and proof of marital status.
Arizona Death Certificate — Needed for estate settlement, life insurance claims, pension transfers, Social Security notifications, and closing accounts of a deceased loved one.
Arizona Divorce Certificate — Proves the legal dissolution of a marriage. Required for remarriage in some states, name restoration, and certain immigration or legal matters.
For use abroad, ask about our apostille service — we authenticate Arizona vital records for international use in Hague Convention countries.
frequently asked questions
Arizona Birth Certificate FAQs
What Does an Arizona Birth Certificate Look Like?
An officially certified birth certificate will display distinct features to indicate the ADHS-BVR issues it. The appearance of an official birth certificate may differ depending on the year it was issued. It will often include key information to verify a person's identity and the legitimacy of their citizenship at birth.
The state of Arizona does not differentiate between Long-Form and Short-Form birth certificates when issuing official documents.
The ADHS-BVR exclusively issues certified copies for legal and identification purposes, while non-certified copies (generally issued by county offices) are for genealogical or personal use only. A separate document called a Certificate of Live Birth is an unofficial hospital record used to create the official birth certificate and is not valid for legal purposes.
The ADHS-BVR stipulates guidelines for counties that may use unique colors and layouts. In all cases, official birth certificates will generally display features such as:
• Full Name of the Person: The full legal name of the person whose birth is being recorded.
• Date of Birth: The exact date of birth of the individual.
• Place of Birth: The city, county, and state where the birth took place.
• Parents’ Names: The full names of both parents, including the mother’s maiden name.
• State Seal: A raised, embossed, or printed multicolor or black and white seal of the issuing authority, which validates the document.
• Signature of State Registrar: The signature of the state registrar or authorized official responsible for issuing the certificate.
• Date of Issuance: The date when the state officially issued the birth certificate.
• Printed on Security Paper: Printed on specialized paper to prevent counterfeiting.
In some instances, a certified birth certificate may also include:
• Name of the Hospital where the birth was recorded.
How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Arizona Birth Certificate
If you lose your birth certificate:
1.Submit an application for a certified replacement copy in person, by mail, or online through VRO. You will need to complete the application, gather the required identification and documents, and pay the fees determined by the ADHS-BVR.
a For in-person applications: Present the completed application and required documents to the county health department that issued the original birth certificate during hours of availability. The ADHS-BVR does not accept in-person applications.
b. For applying by mail: Send your application, documents, and a check or money order for the replacement fee to the ADHS-BVR at:
Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Vital Records
PO Box 6018, Phoenix, AZ 85005
c. For online submissions: Complete the application and upload your documents through the VRO website (payable by credit card online).
2. ADHS-BVR will mail the certified copy(s) after processing.
How to Correct or Amend an Arizona Birth Certificate
The ADHS-BVS provides information on its website regarding how to amend birth records in various common scenarios. Any supplemental changes or corrections of a birth record are made addendums to the original record, as the original document cannot be altered.
The process and requirements for correcting a birth certificate can vary depending on the year the certificate was initially filed, how/where you submit the request, and what information needs to be changed.
Before initiating the correction or amendment process for official documents, ensure you are eligible to request the correction and identify the type of amendment needed, as each type may require distinct documentation and processes.
Determine Eligibility: Only individuals who may request amendments are the person on record, who must be at least 18 years old for self-corrections; parents or legal guardians, who are authorized to act on behalf of minors or incapacitated adults; and legal representatives, who must possess appropriate court authorization.
Identify Correction Type: When addressing minor errors, such as typographical mistakes or incorrect dates that occurred within one year of birth, submitting a notarized affidavit using ADHS-BVS Form 1023 with supporting evidentiary documents is essential. These documents may include hospital records or baptismal certificates to support your request for correction.
Major Changes regarding parentage, legal name changes, and gender marker updates require a certified court order, such as an adoption decree or name change order. For updates related to parentage, a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity or a court order must be submitted. In cases involving changes to gender markers, it is necessary to provide a physician's statement that confirms the gender transition.
Typically, requests to correct or amend a birth certificate will require the following:
2.1. For corrections to amend a birth record that occurred less than 90 days ago, the parent or guardian must submit a completed affidavit.
2.2. For late corrections made 90 days or more after birth, include evidentiary documentation that validates the correction. Acceptable documents include: hospital medical records, medical records or healthcare provider records, certified blessing or baptismal certificates, immunization records, or other independent source documents. For parental information corrections, submit documents such as parents’ certified birth certificates, US or Mexican passports, or other supporting independent documentation.
3. Provide a valid government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport) or a notarized application if mailing the request.
3.1. A copy of the front and back of the applicant’s valid government-issued picture identification that displays the applicant’s signature or letter must be provided, OR the application must be signed in the presence of a notary.
3.2. If the requestor is the legal guardian or has custody of the person on record, a court order must be submitted.
4. Complete the Notarized Affidavit (ADHS-BVS Form VS-41), attesting to the accuracy and authenticity of the requested correction, accompanied by the requestor’s signature.
4.1. The affidavit must be signed in the presence of a notary.
4.2. Include payment for the fees to request the certified birth certificate replacement ($20.00 per copy) and correction or amendment ($30.00) as a check or money order issued to the Arizona Department of Health Services or ADHS.
4.3. Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover Card) are accepted as payment by completing the information and providing a signature in the Credit Card Info section of Form VS-11.
4.4. Cash payments are only accepted for in-person requests at the ADHS-BVR and select local county offices.
5. Submit the notarized application and supporting evidentiary documents to the following ADHS-BVR mailing addresses
Standard Mail-in Submissions: Arizona Department of Health Services, Vital Records Office PO Box 6018, Phoenix, AZ 85005
In-Person Submissions: Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau Vital Records 150 North 18th Ave., Ste. 120, Phoenix, AZ 85007
(Appointment required)
How to Obtain an Apostille for an Arizona Birth Certificate
You can request Arizona birth certificate apostilles through the Secretary of State office or online via VRO's Apostille Express Service. You must obtain an apostille if you submit your birth certificate to a foreign government. Apostilles are only issued by the Secretary of State for records initially filed with ADHS-BVR.
If you are manually submitting your certificate, you will need to provide the following information:
1) Include a certified copy of your Arizona birth certificate.
3) Include payment as a check or money order of $3.00 (per document) issued to the Secretary of State. Cash or Credit Card payments are only accepted for in-person services.
Expedited orders are available for an additional $25.00 fee.
4) Include a self-addressed, prepaid envelope (mandatory).
5) Submit the application, certified copy of your birth certificate, and payment to the Arizona Secretary of State at the following addresses:
Standard Mail/Express Courier Submissions:
Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, Attn: Notary Division 1700 W. Washington Street, FL. 7, Phoenix, AZ 85007-2808
In-Person Submissions:
Arizona State Complex Building 1st floor, Suite 141, 400 W. Congress, Tucson, AZ 85701
State Capitol Executive Tower, 2nd floor, Suite 220, 1700 W. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85007
How Much Does an Arizona Birth Certificate Cost?
A certified copy of an Arizona birth certificate costs $20 through the Arizona Department of Health Services, Office of Vital Records. Unlike some states, there is no discount for additional copies ordered at the same time — each copy is $20. When using an authorized online filing service like VitalRecordsOnline.com, fees start at $29.00 plus state fees, which includes preparation and filing of your application.
Yes, you can order an Arizona birth certificate online through the Arizona Department of Health Services or through authorized third-party services like VitalRecordsOnline.com. Online ordering allows you to submit your request without visiting a government office. You will need to provide the full name on the certificate, date and place of birth, names of both parents, and a valid form of identification. Standard processing takes approximately 5 to 7 business days for online orders.
Can Someone Else Request My Arizona Birth Certificate?
In Arizona, birth certificates are restricted records. Only certain people can request a certified copy, including the person named on the certificate if they are 18 or older, a parent or legal guardian listed on the record, a legal representative with proper court documentation, or an immediate family member with proof of relationship. If you are requesting on behalf of someone else, you must provide documentation proving your eligibility, such as a power of attorney or court order.
What if I Don't Have a Photo ID to Request an Arizona Birth Certificate?
If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, the Arizona Department of Health Services may accept alternative forms of identification. Options can include two forms of secondary identification such as a utility bill, bank statement, or Social Security card that together verify your identity. You may also have a notarized statement from someone who can verify your identity. Contact the Office of Vital Records directly at (602) 364-1300 to confirm what alternative documents they will accept for your specific situation.
What's the Difference Between a Long Form and Short Form Arizona Birth Certificate?
A long-form birth certificate (also called the "full" or "certified" copy) is a complete reproduction of the original Arizona birth record. It includes your full legal name, date and place of birth, parents' names, birthplaces, and occupations, the attending physician or midwife, and the file date and registration number. This is the version you'll need for passports, REAL ID, Social Security, adoption, immigration, dual citizenship, and most legal purposes.
A short-form birth certificate (sometimes called a "certification" or "abstract") is a condensed version that shows only your name, date of birth, place of birth, and sex. It does not include parents' information. The short form is accepted for many everyday purposes, like enrolling in school, applying for a driver's license, or joining sports leagues, but it is not always accepted for federal documents or international travel.
When you order a Arizona birth certificate through VitalRecordsOnline, you receive the long-form version by default, since it is the most widely accepted. If you're unsure which version you need, check with the agency requesting the document.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Arizona Birth Certificate?
Processing times for an Arizona birth certificate depend on how you order and which delivery speed you choose. Standard government processing through the Arizona vital records office generally takes 4 to 12 weeks by mail. In-person requests at the state office or authorized county location are often completed the same day or within a few business days.
When you order online through VitalRecordsOnline, we review your application within 24 hours to catch errors before submission, then forward it to the issuing authority. Most customers receive their certified Arizona birth certificate in 2 to 3 weeks with standard shipping. Expedited processing and rush shipping options are available at checkout for urgent needs like passport applications or upcoming travel.
If the issuing office returns your request because of missing information, our team contacts you immediately so the correction can be made without starting over. You can track your order status at any time through your account.
You can get an Arizona (AZ) birth certificate from several sources. The Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Vital Records (ADHS-BVR) processes mail and online orders for any birth that occurred in Arizona since 1909. For walk-in service, visit your local county vital records office — Maricopa County, Pima County, Pinal County, and Coconino County all accept walk-in requests. You can also order online through an authorized service like VitalRecordsOnline.com, which handles the application and filing process for you.
A certified birth certificate is required for many purposes, including applying for a passport, obtaining a Real ID, or researching genealogy records. Your birth certificate number is a unique identifier printed on each certified copy.
How Do I Get a Birth Certificate in Maricopa County?
Maricopa County residents can request an Arizona birth certificate in person at the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, Office of Vital Registration. Walk-in customers should arrive by 4:00 PM to ensure same-day service. Bring a current, signed government-issued photo ID and $20 per certified copy (cash, check, or money order). Maricopa County can issue certificates for any birth that occurred in the state of Arizona, not just Maricopa County births. You can also order online through VitalRecordsOnline.com without visiting a county office.
If you were born in a neighboring state, you can order your birth certificate from New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, or Colorado through VRO as well.
Can I Get a Birth Certificate in Tucson, AZ?
Yes, Tucson residents can get an Arizona birth certificate through the Pima County Office of Vital Records, located in Tucson. Pima County accepts walk-in, mail, and online requests for any Arizona birth certificate. Bring a valid signed photo ID and $20 per copy. If you prefer not to visit in person, you can order your Tucson, AZ birth certificate online through VitalRecordsOnline.com — your application is prepared and filed on your behalf with tracked delivery.
