GN DAL00302.500 DAL — Public Record Of Birth

See GN 00302.500

GENERAL

State Bureaus of Vital Statistics (BVSs) have issued certified birth certificates in several formats throughout the years. Many States now issue computer generated documents on bank note prismatic paper that are counterfeit-resistant and tamper- resistant. BVSs may also issue a certified photographic copy of the actual document.

The following information about the types of birth certificates that currently may be issued by States in this Region is provided to help employees review documents for authenticity. All certificates issued by the State are acceptable as public records of birth.

RM 10211.510 provides a description of the uniform numbering system used by State registrars as well as additional information about known fraudulent birth certificate activities.

1. Arkansas

Effective 7/1/85, computer generated copies on bank note paper with an embossed seal are issued for births after 1979. A certified photographic copy is issued for births prior to 1980 as well as upon request for births after 1979. Wallet-sized certificates are issued in the form of a blue plastic card.

2. Louisiana

Computer generated copies on bank note paper with an embossed seal are issued for all births after 1982 and for those births before 1983 that are on the State's data base. A photocopy on precertified bank note paper is issued for those births prior to mid-1983 not on the State's database. Currently, non-laminated wallet-sized certificates for births 1930 on are issued on the new counterfeit-resistant paper stock. If the wallet-sized certificate has been laminated, the State cannot guarantee its validity.

3. New Mexico

Currently, only computer-generated copies on bank note paper with an embossed seal are issued. Wallet-sized certificates are not issued.

4. Oklahoma

Currently, three types of certificates (an exact copy, a typed certification, and a non-laminated small card (size 3 1/2 by 4 1/2)) are issued on greenish-gray safety paper bearing the embossed seal and signature of the State Registrar.

5. Texas

Computer generated copies on bank note paper with an embossed seal have been issued since 01/85. Basket weave safety paper (green paper stock) was used 1978 through 1984 and for two unknown months in 1985. Some certifications issued prior to 1985 may have been issued on bank note paper. A certified photographic copy is issued upon request.

Wallet-sized birth registration cards were first issued in 1952 on light blue safety paper with dark blue print and laminated in plastic. After 11/27/78, the card was issued on bank note style paper and not laminated. The State has no prohibition against the laminating of the current wallet-sized birth registration cards.

Valid certificates similar to those issued by the State may be issued by a local registrar or county clerk.


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http://policy.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0200302500DAL
GN DAL00302.500 - DAL — Public Record Of Birth - 01/04/2002
Batch run: 03/02/2012
Rev:01/04/2002