Iowa Birth Records

To begin, add a birth record or view a list of locations and resources for Iowa birth records.

Finding birth records in Iowa is actually a bit unique. In other states, state records and county records of events are considered relatively interchangeable, but in Iowa this isn't really the case.

State birth records are kept by the Iowa Department of Public Health, which can issue certified copies to individuals who demonstrate a lineal relationship with the person who's mentioned. County records can also be retrieved by these individuals, but county records are special, in that they can be viewed by the public. State vital records, even though they contain essentially the same facts, are not open to the public.

This is good news to anyone interested in genealogy research, especially in consideration of the fact that Iowa birth records date back to 1880. While it's possible to research records in person or request them via the mail, one of the fastest ways to get results and search Iowa birth records is to use an online public records finder to really speed up the research process.

To receive a birth certificate fill out the Iowa Birth Certificate Mail-in Form. Mail your application to:

Iowa birth certificates are available dating back as far as 1880, and may be obtained by making your request to the State Public Health Department. You will be charged a fee of $15.00, and may be asked to provide proof of relationship or legal eligibility to receive your copy. You will also have to provide government issued photo ID, and your notarized signature. For more information visit: Iowa Department of Public Health