Birth Certificates

Request a Record

Maine law limits access to certified vital records to individuals named on the record, their spouse, registered domestic partner, descendants, parents or guardians, or their designated attorney, federal/state/local government, or genealogist or agent. You must show proof of a direct and legitimate interest in order to obtain this record. 

View a list of who can obtain a record (PDF).

Request Methods

You may purchase a certified copy of a birth record online, in person, or through the mail from the Clerk's office. Birth certificates may be requested from the municipality where the birth took place as well as the municipality where the mother resided at the time of the birth.

In Person

Birth certificates may be purchased in person at the Clerk's office during normal business hours. No appointment is needed. Please bring your ID along with proof of relationship (as needed).

Mail

To order a certified copy of this record through the mail, please print a request form (PDF) or write us a letter including the following information:

  1. Full name on the record
  2. Date of birth
  3. Please include both parents' names (with mother's maiden name)
  4. If your name is not on the record, please call the City Clerk's office for guidance
  5. Photocopy of proof of identity
  6. Your name, mailing address, and telephone number
  7. Number of copies ordering
  8. Please include a self-addressed stamped envelope

Online

You may now order and purchase a certified copy of a birth certificate online via Maine's Municipal Vital Record Request Service. Record requests will be fulfilled within two business days and mailed to the address provided. You must possess a valid U.S. Driver's License to order through this service.

Please ensure your record is on file in South Portland prior to using the online request system! Birth certificates may be requested from the municipality where the birth took place as well as the municipality where the mother resided at the time of the birth.

Fees

The cost is $15 for the first certified copy and $6 for each additional certified copy of the same record, ordered at the same time. Make checks payable to the City of South Portland. Please do not send cash in the mail. The City Clerk's office accepts debit and credit card payments subject to fees. Online orders are subject to additional processing fees. Non-certified copies are $3.

Note: Birth certificates cannot be faxed or emailed.

Apostilles

Are your documents leaving the country? If so, you may need an apostille. Visit the Department of the Secretary of State website for more information.