How to Request Vital Records Without a Government-Issued ID
What to Do If You Have No ID for a Vital Records Application
If you do not have a government-issued photo ID to submit with your vital records application, you may still be able to obtain your birth certificate, death certificate, marriage certificate, or divorce record using alternative methods. Each state has different requirements, but common options include having an authorized person request the record for you, providing alternative identification, or obtaining a court order.
Below, we outline your options and the steps you need to take.
Option 1: Have an Authorized Person Request the Record for You
Who Can Request Vital Records on Your Behalf?
In many states, immediate family members or legal representatives can request vital records for someone without an ID. Eligible requestors may include:
- Parents
- Grandparents
- Legal guardians
- Siblings
- Spouses
What Documents Does the Requestor Need?
If an authorized individual is requesting the record on your behalf, they may need to submit:
- A copy of their valid government-issued photo ID
- Proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate, marriage license, guardianship papers)
- A notarized letter authorizing them to make the request
Check your state’s specific requirements for accepted requestors.
Option 2: Provide Alternative Identification Documents
List of Commonly Accepted Alternative IDs
If you don’t have a government-issued ID, some states accept:
- School ID cards
- Employee ID badges
- Utility bills or bank statements with your name and address
- Medical insurance cards
- Pay stubs or tax documents
How to Submit Proof of Identity Without an ID
When using alternative forms of identification, ensure that:
- The name on your alternative ID matches the name on the record.
- The document is recent (within the last 60 days for bills/statements).
- You include two alternative documents if required by your state.
Option 3: Obtain a Court Order for Vital Records Access
When Do You Need a Court Order?
A court order may be necessary if:
- You don’t have any acceptable forms of ID.
- You are requesting a restricted vital record.
- Your request has been denied due to insufficient documentation.
Steps to Obtain a Court Order
- File a petition in your local court explaining why you need access to the vital record.
- Provide supporting documents to verify your identity.
- Attend a court hearing if required.
- Receive the court order and submit it with your application.
State-Specific Requirements for Requesting Vital Records Without an ID
Where to Find Your State’s ID Requirements
Each state has different rules regarding ID requirements for obtaining vital records. To check what is required in your state:
- Visit our Application Requirements page.
- Select the state where the record was issued.
- Review the specific guidelines for acceptable forms of identification and alternative options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Request My Birth Certificate Without an ID?
A: Yes, depending on your state, you can provide alternative identification or have an immediate family member request the record on your behalf.
Q: What If I Recently Moved and Don’t Have Proof of Address?
A: You can use documents such as a lease agreement, mortgage document, or a notarized letter from your landlord to verify your address.
Q: How Long Does It Take to Process a Request Without an ID?
A: Processing times vary by state, but requests without standard ID may require additional verification, leading to longer processing times.
Need More Help? Contact Support
If you have additional questions or need personalized assistance, please contact our support team. We’re here to help you navigate the process of obtaining your vital records without a government-issued ID.