How to Get a Certified U.S. Birth Certificate Fast

A birth certificate is one of the most important documents you’ll need for travel, whether you’re applying for a passport, renewing one, or verifying citizenship for a visa. If you don’t have a certified copy on hand, getting one quickly can feel overwhelming, but there are ways to speed up the process and guarantee you have what you need in time.

If you were born in the U.S., your birth certificate is held by the vital records office in the state where you were born. Each state has its own processing times and requirements, so checking in advance is crucial. Some states allow same-day pickup for in-person requests, while others offer expedited shipping options for online or mail orders. Be sure to have valid identification and any required paperwork ready to avoid delays.

A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) serves the same purpose as a birth certificate for those born abroad to U.S. citizens. If you need a replacement, you’ll need to request it through the U.S. Department of State. This process can take longer than a standard state-issued certificate, so planning ahead is key.

Ensuring you have a certified copy ahead of time can save you from unnecessary stress when planning international trips. If you need help obtaining your birth certificate quickly for passport or visa processing, contact us at 713-874-1420 to get started today.