Birth Certificates

Note: This information pertains to persons born in Minnesota. For information on obtaining a birth record for someone born in another state, visit Vital Chek.

A birth certificate can typically be used as identification for purposes of applying for things like a passport, proof of citizenship, Social Security, driver's license, and school registration.

To obtain a birth record in Minnesota, you are required to prove tangible interest. Some birth records are confidential.

  1. Apply for a Birth Certificate
  2. Changing or Amending a Birth Record

Steps to Apply (All Submission Options)

  1. Print and complete the Birth Record Application (PDF)
  2. Take the application to a notary and have them notarize your signature. 
  3. Ensure your daytime contact information is provided on the application. Applications without contact information cannot be processed. 
  4. Submit the application issuing one of the methods below.
  5. Staff will call you at the time of processing to obtain credit/debit information. A 2.49% service fee is assessed on all credit/debit transactions. 
  6. Your request will be processed and mailed to the address provided on the application.

Option 1: Apply via email

  • Scan or take a good quality photo of the application and email to [email protected]. 
  • Ensure your daytime contact information is provided on the application AND in the body of your email. Applications without contact information cannot be processed. 

Option 2: Request by mail

Mail notarized application with a check* made out to Scott County to:

Scott County Government Center
Attn: Customer Service
200 Fourth Avenue West
Shakopee, MN 55379

*Do not send cash.

Option 3: Apply in person

Certified birth records are available for a fee of $26.00 for the first copy and $19.00 for additional copies ordered at the same time for the same record. 

You can pay with cash, check (payable to Scott County) or credit card. If you pay with a credit card, a 2.45% convenience fee will be applied.