If you’ve lost or misplaced your birth certificate in Ohio and haven’t gotten around to finding out how to replace it, you’re not alone. Many people lose track of important paperwork, especially in the age of digital storage. Unfortunately, most people forget about their birth certificate until they need it, and it can take several weeks, many phone calls, and at least one trip to the county clerk’s office to get a copy. Plus, you still have to pay $35 for the official copy after all your hard work to get it.
Leaving the Country
To travel to and from the country, you need a passport, and the application requires an authentic birth certificate. If you can’t provide one, you still have to get a letter from the local registrar’s office where you were born that testifies they have no record and submit it with a birth affidavit for review. This process can take several weeks, and there is no guarantee of an exception to issue the passport.
Getting Your Marriage License
You need a copy of your birth certificate to apply for a marriage license in Ohio, even if you weren’t born in the state. Neglecting this still could postpone your nuptials.
Join the Military
If you want to join the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, or Airforce, the Department of Defense wants an official copy of your Ohio birth certificate. So, if you’re ready to head to boot camp, make sure you have it before you go to enlist.
Enroll in School
Yes—Even if you’re footing the entire bill, most universities still need an official copy of your birth certificate to let you into class. Additionally, many primary and secondary schools are beginning to require copies to verify proof of age.
Don’t cancel your plans. There are options to get your Ohio birth certificate quickly, without delaying your departure, emptying your bank account, or making you jump through hoops with a county clerk’s office.
