Frequently Asked Questions
- Why does it take so long to receive a copy of my record?
The State Vital Records serves the entire State of Indiana; therefore, the processing time is longer than our local counterparts.
For faster birth certificate service, those who were born in Indiana can place orders through the local health department for the county they were born in. Click here to view local health department information.
- Can I expedite my application?
There is an option for expedited shipping option for an additional cost, but there is no option for expedited application processing.
- Can I drop off my application in person?
No, the State office does not offer in-person service.
- Can my online order be shipped to multiple addresses?
No, as a secure document, the certificate must be mailed to the legal address listed on your ID.
- Can I check to see if a record exists before I submit an application?
No, State vital records are not public information.
- Why did I not get a refund for my request if no record was found by your office?
A record cannot be identified as available prior to purchase because under State statute (IC 16-37-1-11 and IC 37-1-11.5), the fee associated with a birth certificate is for the IDOH Vital Records office to search the records and determine if a record is on file. The search fee includes one certified copy of the certificate if the record is found; search fees are non-refundable.
- What do I do if I did not receive my certificate in the mail?
Submit a Help Desk ticket. In most cases, a new order will have to be placed.
- How do I submit a birth, death, or fetal death data request?
Public Data Requests
Submit a Data Request Form. Requests can take up to 4 weeks to complete.
LHD Data Requests
Submit a Help Desk ticket and someone from our Data Quality team or VR Help Desk will contact you once your request is received.
For urgent requests, contact Rachel Ragland, (317) 234-1689.
