The only Maryland birth records that are open to the public are those with a date of birth more than 100 years from today. These older records are stored at the Maryland State Archives, at 350 Rowe Blvd in Annapolis.
For any record more recent than 100 years, you can only get a certified copy from the Vital Statistics office if the record is for yourself, your child or if there is a pressing legal matter that requires the certificate. You will have to provide the proper identification in order to make such a request, either showing ID at the counter when you apply or including a clear photocopy of your ID with your applications forms through the mail. Only government issued photo ID is acceptable.
Mailed applications for Maryland birth records should be sent to the Division of Vital Records, PO Box 68760, Baltmore MD, 21215-0036 USA. The actual physical address for in-person requests is 6550 Reisterstown Road, Baltimore MD 21215. They have counter service during standard business hours.
If you apply in person, you can usually get same-day results or even while you wait. For mailed in applications, there is at least a 2 week waiting period. You can also get same-day service at most local health departments, except for Montgomery County, Baltimore City and Baltimore County.
Your application for a Maryland birth record also has to be accompanied by the correct fee, which is $12 USD at the moment. The current fee is marked on the application form and does change periodically. Mailed applications should have a check or money order made out to the Division of Vital Records. You can also pay in cash if you are putting in your request in person. Some local health departments may add an extra service charge, so bring a little extra with you or call ahead to verify.
Though the state itself has a long history, there was not a consistent recording of births until nearly 1910. Some local counties have their own records dating back to 1865. You can make requests at county registrar offices for older records, many of which can be viewed by the public but usually only in person. Also most of these records are at the State Archives.
The forms to request a Maryland birth record can be printed out online. If you are requesting from the Vital Records office, their website has the form (http://vsa.maryland.gov/apps/abcapp.pdf)
For requests to the Maryland State Archives, when the record is more than 100 years old, they have their own separate form (http://www.msa.md.gov/msa/refserv/forms/pdf/birthcertificate.pdf). They charge they own fees for records requests, which is currently $25. They take check, money order or credit card. All the information is on the application form.
In either case, you'll need to identify the record you are seeking by the person's name, birth date, place of birth and their parent's full names. If your record is not found, your fee will be kept to cover the cost of the search.
How to request Maryland birth certificates:
Step 1.
You will need to complete the Maryland Birth Certificate form to make your request.
Step 2.
You will also need to provide proof of identity in the form of a current, government-issued photo ID. If you do not have an ID, two separate documents proving your identity, and at least one that includes your current address, are required.
Step 3.
Mail the application and proof of identity along with the $12 fee and a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Division of Vital Records.
If you have additional questions regarding accessing Maryland birth records, you can contact the office below:
Maryland Department of Health
Division of Vital Records
P.O. Box 68760
Baltimore, MD 21215-0036
(410) 764-3036
How To Find Maryland Birth Records
If you need Maryland birth records for identification or other purposes, then you will need to contact the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. The Department maintains records from 1875 and onwards, though records over 100 years old will need to be requested through the archive service. Only records from 1939 to present day are available for same day requests.
Ways You Can Place An Order
If you need to order Maryland birth records, there are several ways that you can do so. If you need your birth record the same day, then you can request one in person in most counties. You can also fill out and mail in an application. If you prefer to order online or pay with credit card, those services are available through an independent provider for an additional fee.
Limited Accessibility
Maryland birth records are not considered part of the public record and can therefore only be accessed by a limited number of people. The only persons authorized to access the record is the individual, their legal parent or guardian, or a legal representative for one of the two.
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