Birth/Death Records

Who can obtain a birth certificate?

• The individual

• An adult child

• A parent (if listed on the birth certificate)

• Spouse

• A brother/sister 

• A grandparent

• A legal guardian or representative with proof of guardianship or attorney-client relationship

After 75-years a birth certificate is public record and anyone can obtain a copy; they are still required to fill out the application and present identification. Loc. Gov't Code Sec. 191.004(c)

What is a Long Form?

A long form birth certificate is obtained through the county of birth or from the state. This certified copy of a birth certificate contains all the information on the individual's birth certificate, such as the hospital, the doctor, the parents' birth place, etc. This form of birth certificate is good for everything including school, social security, driver's licenses, employment, passports, etc.

What is a Short Form?

A short form birth certificate is obtained through the state database or from the state. This certified copy of a birth certificate contains a summary of the individual's birth. It has the person's name, parents names, date of birth, county of birth. This form of birth certificate is good for most things including school, social security, driver's licenses, employment, etc. It is NOT ALWAYS good for a passport.