"How do I get my birth certificate?" is a commonly asked question. Too often, many of us have lost track of our vital birth documents. Years may go by with us utterly unaware of the location of our birth certificates.

Then, suddenly, the day comes when we need to start a new job, or replace our driver's license. Suddenly we need our certified copy of birth certificate ... and we need it fast! Where do we turn?

The Answer to "How Do I Get My Birth Certificate?"

"How do I get my birth certificate?" Mom and dad may have a different answer to "how do I get my birth certificate?" than your best friend. For them, writing to the vital records registry has been the way to go.

This involves filling out an application, then either taking it down to the office in person or sending it through the U.S. Postal Service. Either way, it was more of a hassle than the new way, which is to fill out an online application. The advantage of going online, of course, is that it is far more convenient and delivery times are faster.