Boston has birth records from 1870 to present day. Birth certificates for recently born babies are available at Boston City Hall about two weeks after the baby’s paperwork is completed at the hospital. Boston birth records from 1630-1869 require a $10 research fee, more time, and should be ordered by mail.

If the parents weren’t married when the baby was born, the birth certificate becomes restricted. Only those listed on a restricted record can request it. For online orders, you will need to upload:

a photocopy of your valid ID (a driver’s License, state ID, or passport), and

any other required documents when making your request.

Cost for online orders

Birth certificates cost $14 per copy. That price includes shipping. You will be charged an extra service fee of not more than $0.25, plus 2.15%. That fee goes directly to a third party to pay for the cost of card processing. We have more information about card service fees at the City of Boston.