Pennsylvania Health Department Vital Records - Philadelphia

In Pennsylvania, you can expect the processing time for a valid state copy of your birth certificate or that of an immediate family member to last up to 17 weeks.

By using our online Vital Records office database, you can ensure that your application will be processed at your correct local location. This can save you time and trouble.  

You can also avoid delays if you send your application with all the required documents and submit your application at the correct location.

The fee to apply for a new copy of a birth certificate in Pennsylvania is $20. You must use either a check or money order to complete the payment. 

Applying for a copy of your vital record or an immediate family member’s record without paying the fee will result in longer processing times. 

You must pay the fee via check or money order made out to the Pennsylvania Division of Vital Records.

Only certain documents will be regarded as a valid form of identification with an application for a PA birth certificate

You may provide a photocopy of one of the following IDs along with your application:

• Driver’s license

• Non-driver’s license ID card

• U.S. Passport

• Other government-issued photo-ID

You can also submit 2 of the following documents that state your name and address: 

• Utility or telephone bill

• Bank statement

• Vehicle registration

• Pay stub 

Ensure that the photo ID that you use is not expired when you submit your application.