Getting Your Birth Certificate Apostilled for DAFT

Getting your birth certificate apostilled is simpler than the FBI check—but there are still steps to follow.

---

Step 1: Order Certified Copy

You need a certified copy, not a photocopy.

Where to order:

• Your birth state's vital records office
• VitalChek.com (online service)
• County clerk where you were born

Cost: $25-50 Timeline: 2-4 weeks

Order 2-3 copies—you might need extras.

---

Step 2: Get Apostille

Must be apostilled by your birth state's Secretary of State.

General process:

1. Mail certified birth certificate to Secretary of State
2. Include payment ($10-25)
3. Include return envelope
4. Wait 1-4 weeks
5. Receive apostilled certificate

Process varies by state—see our state-specific guides linked below.

---

Timeline

Total: 3-8 weeks

• Order certificate: 2-4 weeks
• Apostille: 1-4 weeks

Start 2-3 months before you need it.

---

Cost

Total: $35-75

• Certificate: $25-50
• Apostille: $10-25

Cheaper than FBI check, faster too.

---

Common Issues

Born outside US: Need birth certificate from that country, with apostille (if Hague Convention country).

Adopted: Use amended birth certificate with adoptive parents' names.

Name change: Bring marriage certificate or court order showing name change.

---

State-Specific Guides

Each state has different process:

• California
• Texas
• Florida
• New York
• Illinois
• Pennsylvania
• Ohio
• Washington
• Massachusetts
• North Carolina

For general apostille information, see Apostille Process Explained.

---

We're not immigration lawyers—just Americans who did this. Requirements change, so verify with official sources.