Birth Records

Obtain a Certified Copy of a Minnesota Birth Certificate

  • If you were born before 1935: Birth certificates will take longer to process pending notification of county of birth and verification by the state.
  • If you were born in Minnesota from 1935 to the present: Your birth certificate is on a statewide vital statistics system through the Minnesota Department of Health located in our office.

Obtain A Certified Copy In Person

  • The fee will be $26 for the first copy and $19 for each additional copy requested for the same record.
  • When you arrive you will need to complete a Minnesota Birth Record Application (PDF) and present valid photo identification such as your driver's license.
  • You may appear in person at the Vital Statistic Department nearest you in the State of Minnesota.

Note: You must have tangible interest as indicated on the application to obtain a copy of a certified birth record.

Obtain A Certified Copy By Mail

You must complete a Minnesota Birth Record Application (PDF) and sign the form in front of a notary public. You will need to show the notary public a valid photo identification such as a driver's license. Birth certificate requests are processed within one to three business days of when we receive them depending on the year of birth.

  • Send $26 for the first copy and $19 for each additional copy requested for the same record. Make your check payable to Watonwan County. A photo copy of government issued ID is appreciated.
  • Send the completed application form and correct dollar amount to:
    Watonwan County Vitals
    710 Second Avenue S
    P.O. Box 518
    St. James, MN 56081

Note: You must have tangible interest as indicated on the application to obtain a certified birth record.

Obtain a Noncertified Copy of a Birth Certificate


  • Complete a Non Certified Birth Record Application (PDF).
  • Make a check for $13 payable to Watonwan County. Each additional copy is $6.
  • Send information and check to:
    Watonwan County Vitals
    710 Second Avenue S
    P.O. Box 518
    St. James, MN 56081