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Obtaining a birth certificate in Arkansas involves navigating a straightforward yet specific application process. The Arkansas Department of Health Vital Records office is the designated authority for recording births that occur within the state. It's important to note that only Arkansas births are documented here, and records prior to February 1, 1914, may be limited. When applying for a birth certificate, applicants must submit a fee of $12.00 for the first copy, with each additional copy costing $10.00. This fee must accompany the application and should be paid via check or money order made out to the Arkansas Department of Health—cash is not accepted. If the requested record cannot be found, $12.00 will be retained to cover search costs. The application requires detailed information, including the full name at birth, date of birth, place of birth, and parental details. Additionally, applicants must provide a photo ID and indicate their relationship to the individual whose certificate is being requested. For convenience, applications can be submitted via mail, online, or in person, with expedited options available for those who need their certificates quickly. Understanding these key aspects can simplify the process and ensure that you have the necessary documentation in hand.

Preview - Ar Birth Certificate Form

Arkansas Department of Health

Office of Vital Records

BIRTH CERTIFICATE APPLICATION

Only Arkansas births are recorded in this office. Prior to February 1, 1914, only a limited number of birth records were filed.

Birth certificates can be requested online, by telephone, by mail, or in-person.

When mailing in this application, include a copy of your photo ID with your payment to the Arkansas Department of Health and mail to the address listed in the payment section below. Please allow 7-14 days for processing.

List Below All Possible Birth Dates and Names Under Which the Certificate May be Registered. (Type or Print)

 

 

First Name

 

 

 

Middle Name

Last Name

1.

Full Name at Birth

 

 

 

 

 

Month

Day

 

Year

Sex

Age at Last Birthday

2.

Date of Birth

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Select One

 

 

 

City or Town

 

 

 

County

State

3.

Place of Birth

Name of Hospital or Street Address

 

Arkansas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First Name

 

 

Middle Name

Last Name

4.

Full Name of Father

 

 

 

 

First Name

 

 

Middle Name

Last Name

5.

Full Maiden Name of Mother

 

 

 

(Name Before Marriage)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

original name if known.

 

 

 

 

If this child has been adopted, please give

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If this is a delayed certificate, when was it filed?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is your relationship to the person whose certificate is being requested?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is your reason for requesting this certificate?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is the person whose certificate is being requested still living?

Yes

No

 

 

Signature and contact information of person requesting this certificate.

X

 

Signature

 

 

 

Date

 

Contact Number

Email Address

A valid government-issued photo identification card must be provided to

 

COPIES AND PAYMENT

obtain a certificate of birth. The id must contain 1) a photo, 2) current address,

1st copy costs $12

3) signature, and 4) a unique number or barcode (such as driver’s license

number, passport number, etc.) assigned to the person.

 

 

Each additional copy of the same record costs $10

A copy of any one of the following forms of photo identification is acceptable:

NOTE: If ADH Vital Records does not find the

 

birth record requested, the $12 search fee will be

U.S. issued Driver’s License or Identification Card

 

 

 

kept as a search charge.

U.S. Territories Driver License or Identification Card

 

 

Payment MUST be submitted with application.

Tribal Identification Card that contains the person’s signature

You can obtain a birth record four ways:

(note: some cards do not)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Online: Go to ar.gov/vitalrecords. A non-refundable $5.00 processing

Passport (U.S. or Foreign issued)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

fee and a $1.85 identity verification fee will apply in addition to any

Visa – in passport (and the person’s signature is on the passport,

expedited shipping options selected. Pay by debit or credit card.

not the Visa)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Telephone: Call toll-free at (866) 209-9482. Payment of service fee,

Resident Alien Card (Form 1-551)

 

 

 

certificate fee, and charges for any expedited shipping options may be

Employment Authorization Card (Form 1-766)

 

 

made by debit or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or

Employment Authorization Card (Form 1-688A)

 

 

American Express).

 

 

Walk-in: Visit the Vital Records Office at 4815 W, Markham St.

Temporary Resident Card (Form 1-688)

 

 

 

Any

person

who willfully and

knowingly makes

any false

Little Rock, AR 72205. Orders are accepted for same day issuance

from 8:00 am until 4:15 pm, Monday through Friday.

statement in an application for a certified copy of a vital record

Mail:

Include: 1) Application, 2) Copy of photo ID, and 3) check or

filed in this state is subject to a

fine

of not

more than ten

money order

(DO NOT SEND CASH) payable to:

thousand dollars ($10,000) or

imprisoned

not

more than

Arkansas Department of Health

five

(5)

years,

or

both

(Arkansas

Statues

Number of Copies Requested_________

20-18-105).

 

 

 

 

 

 

Please PRINT the name and address of the person

Amount Enclosed $__________

 

receiving the birth certificate below:

Mail to: Arkansas Department of Health

 

 

 

 

4815 W. Markham St., Slot

 

 

 

 

 

 

44 Little Rock, AR 72205

VR-7 (R 11/17)

Document Specifics

Fact Name Details
Eligibility Only births that occurred in Arkansas are recorded in this office.
Fees The first copy costs $12.00, and each additional copy of the same record costs $10.00.
Search Fee If no record is found, $12.00 will be kept for search charges. Additional searches require another fee.
Governing Law False statements in applications can lead to fines up to $10,000 or imprisonment for up to 5 years (Arkansas Statutes 20-18-105).

Ar Birth Certificate: Usage Instruction

To obtain a birth certificate in Arkansas, you need to fill out the application form accurately. After completing the form, you'll send it along with your payment and a copy of your photo ID to the Arkansas Department of Health. Expect to wait 4-6 weeks for delivery.

  1. Begin by writing the full name at birth of the individual in question, including first, middle, and last names.
  2. Next, enter the date of birth, specifying the month, day, and year.
  3. Indicate the sex and the age of the individual at their last birthday.
  4. Provide the city or town, county, and state of birth.
  5. List the name of the hospital or the street address where the birth took place.
  6. Fill in the full name of the father, including first, middle, and last names.
  7. Enter the full maiden name of the mother (her name before marriage), including first, middle, and last names.
  8. If applicable, provide the original name of the child if they have been adopted.
  9. Indicate if this is a delayed certificate and, if so, when it was filed.
  10. State your relationship to the individual whose certificate is being requested.
  11. Explain your reason for requesting the certificate.
  12. Specify if the person whose certificate is being requested is still living by checking yes or no.
  13. Sign the application and provide your telephone number.
  14. Ensure you include a copy of your photo ID with the application.
  15. Calculate the total fee based on the number of copies requested: $12.00 for the first copy and $10.00 for each additional copy.
  16. Make your payment via check or money order, made out to the Arkansas Department of Health. Do not send cash.
  17. Mail the completed application, payment, and ID copy to the address provided on the form.

Learn More on Ar Birth Certificate

What is the cost of obtaining a birth certificate in Arkansas?

The fee for the first copy of a birth certificate is $12.00. Each additional copy of the same record costs $10.00. It is important to include the payment with your application. Payment can be made by check or money order, payable to the Arkansas Department of Health. Cash should not be sent.

How long does it take to receive a birth certificate after applying?

After submitting your application, please allow 4 to 6 weeks for delivery. If you need the certificate more urgently, consider using the internet or telephone ordering options, which are expedited services.

What information is required to complete the birth certificate application?

The application requires several key pieces of information:

  1. Full name at birth (first, middle, last)
  2. Date of birth (month, day, year)
  3. Place of birth (name of hospital or street address)
  4. Full names of parents (father's full name and mother's maiden name)
  5. Relationship to the person whose certificate is being requested
  6. Reason for requesting the certificate
  7. Signature and telephone number of the requester

Additionally, a copy of your photo identification must accompany the application.

Can I order a birth certificate online?

Yes, birth certificates can be ordered online through the website www.vitalchek.com. This method is expedited, and the fees will be charged to your debit or credit card. Overnight shipping is available for an additional fee.

What should I do if I cannot find the birth record?

If no record of the birth is found, the initial $12.00 fee will be retained to cover search charges. It is crucial to provide all possible names and dates when submitting your request. If you need to search for additional names or dates later, an additional non-refundable fee of $12.00 will be required for each search.

What are the office hours for walk-in requests?

For those who prefer to order in person, the office is open for walk-in requests from 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. The office is located at 4815 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205. Same-day issuance is available during these hours.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Arkansas Birth Certificate application can be a straightforward process, but mistakes can lead to delays or complications. One common error occurs when applicants fail to provide all possible names and birth dates. The form specifically requests listing all names and dates under which the certificate may be registered. Omitting any potential names can result in additional fees and extended processing times, as a new search will need to be conducted.

Another frequent mistake involves the payment method. Applicants sometimes send cash instead of a check or money order, which is explicitly prohibited. The Arkansas Department of Health requires that payments be made via check or money order payable to them. Sending cash not only risks loss but also leads to the application being rejected. Ensuring that the correct payment method is used can save time and prevent unnecessary frustration.

In addition, applicants often overlook the requirement for photo identification. The application clearly states that all requests for certificates must include a copy of a valid photo ID. Failing to include this essential document can lead to delays in processing. It is important to double-check that all required documents are included before mailing the application.

Lastly, many people neglect to specify their relationship to the individual whose certificate is being requested. This information is crucial for the processing of the application. Without it, the request may be delayed or even denied. Providing clear and complete information helps ensure that the application is processed smoothly and efficiently.

Documents used along the form

When applying for a birth certificate in Arkansas, several other forms and documents may be needed. Each of these plays a crucial role in verifying identity, relationship, or legal status. Below is a list of common documents you might encounter alongside the Arkansas Birth Certificate form.

  • Photo ID: A government-issued identification card, such as a driver's license or passport, is required to confirm the identity of the applicant.
  • Application for a Social Security Card: This form is used to request a Social Security number, which is often necessary for various legal and financial purposes.
  • Adoption Records: If the individual was adopted, these documents provide information about the original birth name and parents, which may be necessary for the birth certificate application.
  • Marriage Certificate: This document may be needed to establish the legal name change of a parent, particularly if the mother’s maiden name is required on the birth certificate.
  • Proof of Residency: Documents such as utility bills or lease agreements can verify the current address of the applicant, which may be necessary for certain requests.
  • Death Certificate: If one of the parents is deceased, this document may be required to establish the relationship and provide necessary context for the application.
  • Custody Papers: For individuals who are not biological parents, custody documents may be needed to prove the right to request a birth certificate.
  • Affidavit of Parentage: This sworn statement may be necessary to establish paternity if the father's name is not listed on the birth certificate.
  • Application for a Name Change: If there has been a legal name change, this form documents the change and may be required to match the name on the birth certificate.

Gathering these documents can streamline the process of obtaining a birth certificate. Each piece of information contributes to a complete and accurate application, ensuring that the certificate reflects the correct details. Be prepared and organized to avoid delays in receiving the vital records you need.

Similar forms

The Social Security Card is a document issued by the Social Security Administration. It serves as proof of a person's Social Security number, which is essential for various purposes, including employment and tax reporting. Like the Arkansas Birth Certificate, obtaining a Social Security Card requires personal information such as the individual's name and date of birth. Both documents are crucial for identity verification and legal identification in the United States.

The Driver's License is a state-issued identification that allows individuals to legally operate a motor vehicle. It includes personal details such as the name, address, date of birth, and photograph of the license holder. Similar to the Arkansas Birth Certificate, a Driver's License requires proof of identity and residency. Both documents are commonly used for identification purposes in various situations, including travel and age verification.

The Passport is an official government document that certifies a person's identity and nationality. It is required for international travel and includes the holder's name, date of birth, and photograph. Like the Arkansas Birth Certificate, applying for a Passport involves submitting personal information and proof of identity. Both documents serve as essential forms of identification and are often required for travel and legal transactions.

The Marriage Certificate is a legal document that records the union between two individuals. It includes the names of both parties, the date of marriage, and the location where the marriage took place. Similar to the Arkansas Birth Certificate, obtaining a Marriage Certificate requires submitting personal information. Both documents are vital for establishing legal relationships and are often needed for name changes and other legal processes.

The Death Certificate is an official record that confirms an individual's death. It contains details such as the deceased's name, date of birth, date of death, and cause of death. Like the Arkansas Birth Certificate, a Death Certificate is issued by a government authority and requires specific information to be processed. Both documents are essential for legal matters, including settling estates and claiming insurance benefits.

The Adoption Certificate is a legal document that finalizes the adoption process. It includes the names of the adoptive parents and the adopted child, along with the date of the adoption. Similar to the Arkansas Birth Certificate, this document serves as proof of a significant life event and requires personal information for issuance. Both certificates play a crucial role in establishing legal identities and familial relationships.

The Voter Registration Card is a document that confirms an individual's eligibility to vote in elections. It includes personal information such as the name, address, and date of birth of the voter. Like the Arkansas Birth Certificate, obtaining a Voter Registration Card requires providing personal details. Both documents are important for civic participation and may be used for identity verification when voting.

The Military Discharge Papers, often referred to as DD Form 214, provide proof of a veteran's service in the armed forces. This document includes personal information such as the veteran's name, service dates, and discharge status. Similar to the Arkansas Birth Certificate, obtaining Military Discharge Papers requires submission of personal information. Both documents serve as essential records for legal and benefit-related purposes.

The School Transcript is an official record of a student's academic performance and achievements. It includes the student's name, date of birth, and a list of courses taken along with grades received. Like the Arkansas Birth Certificate, a School Transcript is often required for enrollment in higher education or employment. Both documents validate an individual's identity and history in specific contexts.

The Professional License is a certification that allows individuals to practice in certain professions, such as medicine or law. It includes personal information such as the licensee's name and date of birth. Similar to the Arkansas Birth Certificate, obtaining a Professional License requires proof of identity and qualifications. Both documents are necessary for legal recognition in their respective fields.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Arkansas Birth Certificate form, it’s crucial to ensure accuracy and compliance with the requirements. Here’s a list of things to do and avoid:

  • Do provide all requested information clearly and legibly.
  • Do include a copy of your photo ID with the application.
  • Do send the correct fee along with your application, using a check or money order.
  • Do list all possible birth dates and names under which the certificate may be registered.
  • Do ensure that your application is signed and includes your contact number.
  • Don't send cash, as it will not be accepted.
  • Don't forget to allow 4-6 weeks for processing and delivery of the certificate.

Following these guidelines can help streamline the process and avoid unnecessary delays. Accuracy is key, and being mindful of the requirements will ensure a smoother experience.

Misconceptions

When it comes to obtaining a birth certificate in Arkansas, there are several misconceptions that can lead to confusion. Here’s a list of common misunderstandings:

  • Only Arkansas births are recorded. Many people believe that they can obtain birth certificates for births that occurred outside of Arkansas. However, this office only maintains records for births that took place in Arkansas.
  • Birth records are available from before 1914. Some individuals think they can access birth records from any time period. In reality, there are limited records available prior to February 1, 1914.
  • The fee is the same for all copies. It's a common belief that the cost is uniform. In fact, the first copy ordered costs $12.00, while each additional copy of the same record costs $10.00.
  • Cash payments are accepted. Many assume they can pay with cash. The Arkansas Department of Health specifically instructs applicants not to send cash; only checks or money orders are accepted.
  • The $12.00 fee guarantees a record will be found. Some people think that paying the fee ensures they will receive a birth certificate. However, if no record is found, $12.00 is kept to cover search charges, and additional fees apply for further searches.
  • Photo identification is not necessary for requests. A common misconception is that ID is optional. All requests require a copy of photo identification to process the application.
  • Certificates can be obtained instantly. Many expect immediate delivery. In reality, it can take 4-6 weeks for delivery after the application is submitted.
  • Requests can be made without specifying a relationship. Some individuals believe they can request a certificate without providing their relationship to the person. However, the application requires this information to process the request.

Understanding these misconceptions can help streamline the process of obtaining a birth certificate and ensure that all necessary steps are followed correctly.

Key takeaways

When applying for a birth certificate in Arkansas, it is important to understand the process and requirements. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Eligibility: Only births that occurred in Arkansas are recorded by the Arkansas Department of Health.
  • Historical Records: Records prior to February 1, 1914, are limited and may not be available.
  • Fees: The cost is $12.00 for the first copy and $10.00 for each additional copy of the same record. Payment must accompany the application.
  • Payment Method: Acceptable payment methods include check or money order made out to the Arkansas Department of Health. Cash should not be sent.
  • Search Charges: If no record is found, $12.00 will be retained for search charges. Additional searches require a new fee.
  • Identification Required: A copy of your photo ID must be included with the application.
  • Processing Time: Allow 4-6 weeks for the delivery of the requested certificate.
  • Order Methods: Certificates can be ordered via the internet, telephone, or in person at the office located in Little Rock.

Understanding these key points can facilitate a smoother experience when obtaining a birth certificate in Arkansas.