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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