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Fill Out Your Texas Certificate Birth Form

The Texas Certificate Birth form is an official document used to request corrections to an individual’s birth certificate. It allows eligible applicants, such as the named individual, parents, or legal representatives, to amend details that may be incorrect or incomplete. If you need to make a correction, please fill out the form by clicking the button below.

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Fill Out Your Texas Certificate Birth Form

Article Structure

The Texas Certificate of Birth form serves as a crucial document for individuals looking to correct their birth records or those of minors. Various parties can apply for corrections, including the individual named on the certificate if they are at least 18, or a parent or legal guardian if the child is under 18. Notably, this form cannot be utilized for corrections related to adoptions. To initiate a correction, applicants must complete specific sections of the form, ensuring all signatures are notarized and accompanied by valid photo identification. The application must be submitted in its original form; photocopies or alterations are not accepted. Essential documentation varies depending on the nature of the correction. For instance, correcting a child’s name before their first birthday may not require additional proof, whereas more significant amendments, such as updating a parent’s information, demand specific supporting documents. Additionally, fees are associated with each type of correction, with different amounts depending on the changes requested. Completing the process efficiently necessitates careful attention to detail regarding submission guidelines, which include directions for regular and expedited mailing options. Understanding these requirements is vital to ensure a smooth correction process.

Texas Certificate Birth Example

	TEXAS	Texas Department .of State
	Health and Human
		Health Services
	Services

Correcting a Birth Certificate

THIS FORM CANNOT BE USED TO CORRECT A RECORD BASED ON AN ADOPTION.

Who Can Apply for a Correction?

•The person named on the birth certificate, if at least 18 years of age.

•Parent(s) named on the birth certificate, if child is under 18 years of age.

•Legal guardian(s), managing conservator, or legal representative (proof required) of the person named on the birth certificate.

•Hospital or medical facility where the person named on the birth certificate was born.

How Do I Make a Correction?

☐Complete and sign this application. See pages 4 and 5.

☐Section 1, 2, 5 and 6 MUST be completed. See pages 2 and 3 for how to complete Section 3 or 4.

☐Everyone signing section 6 must sign before a notary public and ATTACH A COPY OF THEIR VALID PHOTO ID(S).

☐The application must be original. Photocopies, alterations, strike-through, or write overs will not be accepted.

☐Submit the appropriate documentation. See pages 2 and 3.

☐Submit the appropriate fees. See fee schedule below.

For Frequently Asked Questions, go to: https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vs/faq/#correct.

For more information, go to: https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vs/requirements.aspx.

Where Do I Mail the Application?

Regular Mailing Instructions - Estimated processing time is 6-8 weeks.

See https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vs/processing/ for current times.

Please submit your application, supporting documents (if required) and fees to:

DSHS – Vital Statistics Section, P.O. Box 12040, Austin, TX 78711-2040.

Expedited Service Mailing Instructions - Estimated processing time is 20-25 business days.

The order and $5.00 processing fee must be sent to the Vital Statistics Section via an overnight mail service such as: FedEx, Lone Star, or UPS.

Please submit your application, supporting documents (if required) and fees to:

DSHS-Vital Statistics Section, MC 2096, 1100 W. 49th Street, Austin, TX 78756.

FAILURE TO PROVIDE INFORMATION REQUESTED ON THIS FORM, MAY RESULT IN SIGNIFICANT

PROCESSING DELAYS AND/OR DENIAL OF YOUR APPLICATION.

Fees: How much must I submit?

	Fee Schedule		Fee ($)	Qty (#)		Total ($)
	Filing Fees (Select One):
O	Correction to Birth Certificate (Not required if child’s name change is in	$15.00			=
	same court order to add/replace/remove parent)
O	Correction to Birth Certificate by adding/removing/replacing a parent	$25.00			=

O	New Birth Certificate based on child’s sex or parent’s race or color	$25.00			=
	See “Correcting the Child’s Sex or Parent’s Race or Color” on Page 3.

For urgent requests, orders may be EXPEDITED by paying the below expedited processing fee AND sending the order through an overnight mail service, such as: FEDEX, LoneStar, or UPS to: DSHS-Vital Statistics Section, MC 2096, 1100 W. 49th Street, Austin, TX 78756.

Expedited processing Fee (per application)

$5.00

All orders are returned free of charge by USPS regular mail. For expedited return mail service, select one of the overnight return shipping methods below.

O	Expedite Overnight Mail (shipping within USA)	$8.00
O	USPS Express Overnight Mail (shipping overnight to PO Box ONLY)	$22.95		=

	Birth Certificate(s):
O	Certified Corrected Birth Certificate ($22.00 per copy)	$22.00	X	=
	Grand Total

Fees may be combined in one check or money order made payable to DSHS – Vital Statistics

For the status of your request, contact VSS by telephone at 1-888-963-7111 or online at: https://www.dshs.texas.gov/orderstatus/.

Page 1 of 5

VS-170 (Rev. 1/21)

What type of correction are you requesting?

A correction to a birth record may be filed to complete or correct a record that is incomplete or proved by satisfactory evidence to be inaccurate. You must complete pages 4 and 5 of this application and may need to provide a supporting document (See Box#1). IF THE CHILD IS A MINOR AND BOTH PARENTS ARE ON THE BIRTH RECORD, BOTH PARENTS MUST SIGN SECTION 6, unless otherwise specified in Box #1.

Box # 1: Document Checklist
I want to…	You will need one of the supporting
	documents shown in Box # 2 below
 Correct a hospital error before 1st birthday	No documentation required.
(hospital must sign and submit application)
 Correct an error or omission made by the hospital after child’s 1st	1 or 2
birthday
 Add or correct child’s first or middle name, BEFORE child’s 1st birthday	No documentation required
Examples: Cindie to Cindy or “no name” to Kathie
 Add or correct child’s first or middle name, AFTER child’s 1st birthday	1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9
Examples: Ann to Anne or Merie to Marie or “no name” to Ryan
 Correct spelling of child’s last name (all documents must be dated	5, 10, 11, 12, 13, or 14
PRIOR to birth of child unless providing a court order)
Example: Martines to Martinez
 Correct child’s date of birth, place of birth, time of birth or sex	1, 2, or 5
 Correct child’s sex after medical/surgical sex change	5
 Correct parent’s information	5, 10, 11, 12, 13, or 14
(parent must be currently listed on the birth certificate)
 Correct mother’s residence address at the time of the child’s birth	1, 2, or 5

 Adding a parent AND the parents were married BEFORE the child was	12
born (Both parents must sign Section 6 of this application in the
presence of a notary. A Hospital Representative cannot apply)
 Change First, Middle, Last name Example: Martinez to Brown	5
 Remove information from birth record	5
Add/remove/replace a parent (A Hospital Representative cannot apply	See page 3, “Adding, Removing, or
for this correction)	Replacing a Parent’s Name”

Suggested Supporting Documents:

Documents must be original certified copies (no photocopies) on official letterhead or with an original certification or seal unless otherwise specified below. Foreign documents, including notaries, must have an apostille or legalization from the Foreign Country where the document was issued. All supporting documents must match the requested correction(s) exactly and cannot be altered.

If an acceptable supporting document cannot be obtained, a court order to correct the information must be submitted. If an item has already been amended once, a court order is required to amend the same item again.

Box # 2: Supporting Documents

1Hospital or medical record at birth (admission/discharge or worksheet)

2Letter from Hospital or medical facility at birth explaining correction needed

3Baptismal certificate - Must be within first 5 years of birth

4Numident printout from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Issued by the SSA, PO BOX 33022, Baltimore, MD 21290-3022. Contact SSA at 410-965-1727 for fees and more information.

5A certified copy of a court order affecting information shown on the birth certificate. Include all pages with judge’s signature and seal of the court.

6Elementary school record - Must be signed by custodian of school records based on earliest attendance.

7Federal census record

8School census record

9Armed forces discharge papers (form DD 214) – Photocopy accepted

10Birth certificate(s) of child’s parent(s)

11Birth certificate of child’s older brother or sister

12Certified copy of Parent’s Marriage license

13Parent’s Naturalization Certificate (must include name change) Call the Immigration and Naturalization Service (ICE) at 800-375-5283 to obtain information on how to secure this document.

14Photocopy of Parent’s domestic passport or Parent’s foreign passport with U.S. Visa

Page 2 of 5

VS-170 (Rev. 1/21)

Adding, Removing or Replacing a Parent’s Name

A new birth certificate may be filed based on parentage to Add, Remove or Replace a parent on the birth certificate. Complete Sections 1,2,4,5 and 6 of this application (pages 4 and 5). In addition, one of five types of documentation must be presented as evidence to file the new birth certificate:

1.A certified copy of the certificate of marriage of the parents;

2.A copy of the Acknowledgment of Paternity (VS-159.1) filed with the Vital Statistics Section;

3.A certified copy of the court decree establishing parentage;

4.A copy of the Acknowledgment of Paternity Rescission (VS 158) filed with the Vital Statistics Section; or,

5.A gestational agreement.

Box # 3: Adding, Removing or Replacing a parent’s name

I am/We are…		You need to complete this application and…
 A mother not married during pregnancy and	(1) Both parents sign Section 6 of this application in
not married now and wants to add a father		the presence of a notary; and,
Or	(2) Complete an Acknowledgement of Paternity (Visit
Or		the Office of the Attorney General, Paternity
 A mother married within 300 days prior to the		the Office of the Attorney General, Paternity
 A mother married within 300 days prior to the		Opportunity Program at
birth of the child and wants to add a biological		https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/cs/establishing-
parent who is not the spouse		paternity)
 A mother not married during pregnancy but is	(1) Both parents sign Section 6 of this application in
now married to the parent		the presence of a notary; and,
	(2) Provide a certified copy of your marriage license

 A parent with a court order establishing	(1) One parent signs Section 6 of this application in
parentage / removing parent (only corrections		the presence of a notary; and,
ordered in the court order will be completed)	(2) Provide a certified copy of the entire court order
Or		(all pages) signed by a judge
Or
 Parents with a gestational agreement
 Parents who have signed a State of Texas	(1) Both parents sign Section 6 of this application in
Acknowledgment of Paternity (VS 159.1)		the presence of a notary; and,
	(2) Provide a copy of the signed Acknowledgement of
		Paternity (VS-159.1).
 A parent who has an Acknowledgement of	(1) One parent signs Section 6 of this application in
Paternity Rescission (VS 158) filed with the Vital		the presence of a notary; and,
Statistics Section and wants to remove their	(2) Provide a copy of the signed Acknowledgement of
name from the birth certificate*		Paternity Rescission (VS-158).

Certified documents submitted will be retained by VSS and placed in a sealed file. A court order is required to unseal a file. Parents should keep copies of certified documents for their records and future use before sending them to VSS.

*Once a parent is removed from the birth certificate, they are no longer a qualified applicant to request a certified copy of the child’s newly corrected birth certificate.

Correcting the Child’s Sex or the Parent’s Race or Color

A new birth certificate may be filed that incorporates the corrected sex of the person named on the birth certificate. It may also be filed on older records to remove the parent(s) “race or color”. The filing fee to create a new birth certificate is $25.00. Complete Section 3 and check the bottom box requesting a new birth certificate be filed. If the bottom box on Section 3 is not checked, the correction will be attached to the original record as an addendum ($15.00 filing fee required).

Reviewing the certified copy of the amended birth record

Once the amendment has been filed, the certified copy of the birth certificate will describe the corrections made below the image of the original birth record.

Page 3 of 5

VS-170 (Rev. 1/21)

,,_	~ TEXAS		ITexas Departm.ent of State
	........,,	Heal!h and Human
~	-:;	Services	Health Services

IMPORTANT: Photocopies, alterations, strike-through, or write-overs in Section 1 through 6 will not be accepted. Please use a new application if you make a mistake.

Birth Certificate Correction Application

Type or Print (please use blue or black ink ONLY)		Remittance No.____________

Section 1: What is Your Name? (Applicant’s Information)

Name (First, Middle, Last):

Address (Mailing Address, City, State, Zip):

Email Address:	Telephone # (daytime)
	(	)	-

Your relationship to Person named on the birth certificate: ☐Parent ☐Self ☐Hospital Representative ☐Legal guardian(s) or Managing Conservator ☐Legal Representative (proof required)

>>>>>>>A COPY OF THE APPLICANT’S VALID PHOTO ID MUST BE ATTACHED<<<<<<<

Section 2: Birth Certificate Information

Enter information as it appears on the current birth certificate (before corrections).

Birth Certificate Number, if known:

I 142 -

Child’s First Name:

Middle Name:

Last Name:

Date of Birth:

ISex:

Place of Birth (City or town)

(County)

(State)

TEXAS

Full Maiden Name (First, Middle, Last) of Parent 1:

Full Maiden Name (First, Middle, Last) of Parent 2:

Section 3: What do you want to correct?

If you are adding, removing or replacing a parent, complete Section 4.

List items to be added,

What is on the birth certificate

What should the birth certificate say?

corrected or removed

now?

Example: Child’s First Name

Not Shown

Tara

Example: Date of Birth

August 2, 2010

August 12, 2010

If you have a certified court order granting a name change only (not changing parentage), complete the information below.

Court Ordered Name Change

First Name:

Middle Name:

Last Name:

Check box (if applicable): We are/I am requesting a new birth certificate be filed to incorporate the correction to the child’s sex or remove the parent’s race or color.

Page 4 of 5

VS-170 (Rev. 1/21)

Section 4: Add, Remove or Replace a Parent

If you want to add, remove or replace the name of a parent, please fill out this section.

I am requesting to: ID Add D Remove D Replace

CHILD’S NAME ON NEW RECORD (Even if it will remain the same) If changing child’s first or middle name, birth certificate correction procedures on page 2 apply.

First Name:		Middle Name:		Last Name(s):	Suffix:
		I			I
INFORMATION FOR PARENT 1 (Even if it will remain the same)
Title (check one):	ID Mother D Father		D Parent

Full Name (Full Maiden Name Prior to First Marriage)

First Name:			I	Middle Name:	Last Name(s):	Suffix:
			I			I
Date of Birth					Place of Birth
Month:	/ Day:	/Year:			State or Foreign Country:

INFORMATION FOR PARENT 2 (Even if it will remain the same) If only 1 parent will remain on the birth certificate, leave this information blank.

Title (check one): ID Mother D Father D Parent

Full Name (Full Maiden Name Prior to First Marriage)

First Name:			I	Middle Name:	Last Name(s):	Suffix:
			I			I
Date of Birth					Place of Birth
Month:	/ Day:	/Year:			State or Foreign Country:

Section 5: Would you like to request a birth certificate? Check one: No, I would not like a certified copy of the corrected birth certificate.

Yes, I would like a certified copy of the corrected birth certificate. Number requested: _______

Please verify fees and quantity ordered in the fee box on Page 1.

Section 6: Affidavit

Please sign below in the presence of a notary public and ATTACH a copy of your valid Photo ID. Applications without acceptable valid ID attached will not be processed. Cross-outs or white-outs will VOID

your application.

WARNING: The Penalty for knowingly making a false statement in this form can be 2-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. (Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 195).

Self, Parent 1, Legal Guardian, or Hospital Rep. >>>>>ATTACH A COPY OF YOUR VALID PHOTO ID<<<<<

Printed Name:			Signature:
			I
Address:		City:		State:	Zip:
	I				I

Notary Public, County Clerk, or other person authorized to administer oaths

Sworn to and subscribed before me, this ______ day of ____________ 20______.

Signature:

Printed name and title:

[Stamp or Seal]

Parent 2 or Legal Guardian 2, if applicable:		>>>>>ATTACH A COPY OF YOUR VALID PHOTO ID<<<<<
Printed Name:			Signature:
			I
Address:	I	City:		State:	Zip:
	I				I

Notary Public, County Clerk, or other person authorized to administer oaths

Sworn to and subscribed before me, this ______ day of ____________ 20______.

Signature:

Printed name and title:

[Stamp or Seal]

Page 5 of 5

VS-170 (Rev. 1/21)

Get Texas Certificate Birth PDF Form

Form Characteristics

Fact Name	Details
Eligibility to Apply	Individuals named on the birth certificate, parents, legal guardians, and the hospital where the birth occurred may apply for corrections.
Required Sections	Sections 1, 2, 5, and 6 must be completed. Additional guidance is provided for Sections 3 and 4.
Notarization Requirement	All signatures in Section 6 must be notarized, and valid photo IDs must be attached to the application.
Document Submission	Photocopies, alterations, or strike-throughs are not accepted. An original application must be submitted.
Processing Times	Regular applications take approximately 6-8 weeks, while expedited requests can be processed in 20-25 business days.
Fees	Fees vary depending on the type of correction. For example, correcting a birth certificate is $15, while adding or removing a parent is $25.
Connecting Documentation	Supporting documents must be original. Examples include marriage certificates, court orders, and hospital records.
Governing Law	Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 195 governs the correction of birth records in Texas.

Guidelines on Utilizing Texas Certificate Birth

Completing the Texas Certificate Birth form is a straightforward process. Follow these steps carefully to ensure successful submission. After filling out the form, you'll need to gather any necessary documents and payment before mailing your application.

Obtain the Texas Certificate Birth form from the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Type or print clearly using blue or black ink only.
Fill out Section 1 with your name, address, email, telephone number, and relationship to the person named on the birth certificate.
Complete Section 2 with the birth certificate information as it currently appears.
In Section 3, indicate the corrections you want to make by listing what is currently on the certificate and what it should state.
If adding, removing, or replacing a parent, fill out Section 4 with the relevant details of the parents.
In Section 5, indicate whether you would like a certified copy of the corrected birth certificate and specify the number of copies requested.
Sign Section 6 in the presence of a notary public. Ensure to include a valid photo ID.
Gather all required documentation that supports your application. Ensure that all documents are original certified copies.
Prepare payment according to the fee schedule provided.
Mail the completed form, documentation, and payment to the appropriate address (either for regular processing or expedited service).

After submitting, wait for processing to be completed. Regular processing can take 6 to 8 weeks, whereas expedited service will typically take 20 to 25 business days. Be sure to keep a copy of your application for your records.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the purpose of the Texas Certificate Birth form?

The Texas Certificate Birth form is used to request corrections to a birth certificate. Corrections can be made for various reasons, including correcting inaccuracies, adding or removing names, and changing information related to the child's sex or the parents' race or color. It is a vital document for ensuring that the official records reflect the correct information for individuals and families.

Who is eligible to apply for a correction of a birth certificate?

Eligibility to apply for a correction is primarily determined by the relationship of the applicant to the individual named on the birth certificate. This includes the individual themselves, if they are at least 18 years old, or their parents if they are under 18. Legal guardians and legal representatives are also allowed to apply, provided they present the necessary proof. Additionally, the hospital or medical facility where the birth occurred can submit an application for corrections related to errors that may have been made at the time of birth.

What specific steps must be taken to make a correction?

To correct a birth certificate, applicants must complete and sign the application, ensuring that specific sections are filled out correctly. This includes providing valid identification and supporting documents, submitting original applications, and paying the required fees. It is important for all signatures to be notarized. The application must be free of any alterations or corrections. Failure to follow these instructions can result in significant processing delays or outright denial of the application.

How long does it take to process a birth certificate correction?

Processing times for a birth certificate correction can vary. For applications submitted via regular mail, the estimated processing time is typically 6 to 8 weeks. For those needing expedited service, the processing time is considerably shorter, at approximately 20 to 25 business days. However, timely submission of the application, supporting documents, and appropriate fees is crucial for meeting these timelines.

Common mistakes

When completing the Texas Certificate Birth form, individuals often encounter several common mistakes. One frequent error is failing to provide an original application. The form must be an original; photocopies or altered documents will not be accepted. Submissions that do not follow this guideline can lead to significant delays or denial of the application.

Another mistake involves incomplete sections of the application. Sections 1, 2, 5, and 6 must be filled out completely. Not addressing these required areas can result in an incomplete application and slow down the processing time.

People sometimes overlook the requirement for valid photo identification. Everyone who signs Section 6 must attach a copy of their photo ID to the application. Failing to include this documentation will cause the application to be rejected.

Some applicants do not sign their forms before a notary public, which is mandatory for Section 6. This oversight can directly impact the application’s validity. Always ensure signatures are notarized, as this is crucial for processing.

An additional common error is misunderstanding the necessity for supporting documentation. Depending on the requested correction, certain original certified documents must be submitted alongside the application. It is vital to provide the correct forms of proof as outlined in the form’s guidelines.

Individuals may also miscalculate fees. Application fees vary depending on the type of correction requested. Double-checking the fee schedule and ensuring the correct amounts are paid can help avoid delays.

Errors in providing accurate information can lead to complications. Information should be entered exactly as it appears on the current birth certificate. Any discrepancies between the application and the existing records can cause processing issues.

Finally, some applicants fail to verify their contact information, especially the mailing address. If the information submitted is incorrect, certification copies may be sent to the wrong location, leading to further inconveniences. Keeping personal information accurate and updated is essential for a smooth process.

Documents used along the form

The Texas Certificate Birth form is an important document used to correct information on a birth certificate. Along with this form, there are several other documents that may be needed for various purposes. Each of these documents serves a specific function in relation to birth records and their corrections.

Acknowledgment of Paternity (VS-159.1): This form is used to establish the legal father of the child when the parents are not married. It must be signed by both parents and filed with the Vital Statistics Section.
Certified Copy of Court Order: If a court has issued a decree affecting the information on the birth certificate, this document must be provided. It must include all pages with the judge’s signature and the court’s seal.
Hospital Records: Official documents from the hospital, such as admission or discharge records, can verify details like the date of birth or medical corrections. These records are required for specific types of corrections.
Parent's Marriage License: This document is necessary when correcting parent information on the birth certificate. A certified copy of the marriage license between the parents helps establish legal relationships.

These supporting documents help ensure that corrections to a birth certificate are processed correctly. Having the right documents can help avoid delays in the application process. It’s important to check what documents are needed for your specific situation before submitting an application.

Similar forms

Birth Certificate: This essential document records the birth of an individual, similar to the Texas Certificate Birth form in that it establishes identity and vital statistics at birth.
Marriage License: Just as the birth certificate provides proof of birth, a marriage license serves as evidence of lawful marriage between two individuals, documenting key personal information.
Death Certificate: Much like a birth certificate affirms identity at the beginning of life, a death certificate officially records the passing of an individual, providing critical details about death.
Social Security Card: Similar to the birth certificate, this card verifies identity and eligibility for social security benefits, linking it directly to your official personal records.
Driver's License: This state-issued identification confirms your identity and age, much like the Texas Certificate Birth form, enabling you to drive legally.
Passport: A passport provides proof of identity and citizenship for travel, establishing the bearer’s identity in a manner comparable to a birth certificate.
Adoption Certificate: While specific to adopted individuals, this certificate functions similarly by documenting important changes in identity and family structure.
Custody Order: This legal document establishes custody of a child, highlighting important personal relationships, much like how a birth certificate signifies parentage.
Name Change Document: This document formalizes a name change, similar to the process of correcting a birth certificate to reflect an individual’s current legal name.
Immigration Documents: These documents, including visas and naturalization certificates, verify identity and immigration status, paralleling how a birth certificate confirms one's identity at birth.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the Texas Certificate Birth form, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Below are eight essential dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

DO complete all required sections of the application, specifically Sections 1, 2, 5, and 6.
DO include a valid photo ID when signing Section 6 before a notary public.
DO submit only original documents; photocopies, alterations, or any form of write-over will not be accepted.
DO provide appropriate supporting documentation as specified in the checklist.
DON'T forget to check the box on Section 3 if you are requesting a new birth certificate after a correction.
DON'T skip the notarization process; all signatures must be made in front of a notary public.
DON'T provide documents that do not match the requested corrections; this includes ensuring names and dates are accurate.
DON'T assume that one mistake can be corrected on the current application form; use a new form if there are errors.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Texas Certificate Birth form can lead to confusion when attempting to make corrections. Here are seven common misunderstandings:

Anyone can apply for a correction. Only specific individuals, like the person named on the birth certificate or the child's parents if the child is under 18, can request a correction.
A notary is not necessary. In fact, all applicants must sign section 6 before a notary public, and attach a copy of their valid photo ID for the application to be valid.
Corrections can be made for adoption records. This is incorrect. The Texas Certificate Birth form cannot be used to correct records pertaining to adoptions.
Photocopied applications are acceptable. Unfortunately, the application must be original. Photocopies, alterations, or strike-throughs will not be accepted.
All forms of documentation are equivalent. That's not true. Supporting documents must be original certified copies and suit the requested corrections precisely.
There’s no fee for corrections to a birth certificate. In reality, specific fees depend on the type of correction being requested, ranging from $15.00 to $25.00 for various changes.
Applications will be processed immediately. Typically, processing times are around 6 to 8 weeks for regular requests. Patience is necessary as it may take longer in some cases.

Understanding these misconceptions can help streamline the process of correcting a birth certificate in Texas.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the Texas Certificate Birth form requires careful attention to detail and compliance with specific guidelines. Here are ten key takeaways to simplify the process:

Eligibility: You must be the individual named on the birth certificate, a parent if the child is under 18, or a legal representative to apply for a correction.
Sections to Complete: Ensure that sections 1, 2, 5, and 6 are fully completed. Additional guidance is provided for sections 3 and 4 on pages 2 and 3 of the application.
Notarization Required: All signatures in section 6 must be completed before a notary public. Remember to include a valid photo ID for each signer.
No Copies: Submit an original application. Photocopies or altered forms will not be accepted, so be meticulous.
Documentation: Supporting documents may need to be provided depending on the type of correction requested. Review the checklist carefully.
Fees: Be prepared to pay applicable fees, which vary based on the nature of the correction. Check the fee schedule to ensure accuracy.
Mailing Instructions: Understand where to send your application. Regular processing can take 6-8 weeks, while expedited services are available for quicker turnarounds.
Processing Delays: Failure to provide required information may lead to significant processing delays or outright denial of your application.
Importance of Accuracy: Ensure all information provided matches exactly what is on the current birth certificate. Inaccuracies can lead to complications.
Follow-up: For status updates on your request, contact the Vital Statistics Section as needed for peace of mind during the waiting period.

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