To request a copy, follow these steps:

1.  Fill out a notarized, completed Form DS-5542

• Fill out the form on your computer
• If you complete the form by hand, use black ink
• Sign the form in front of a notary public to avoid delays

2. Get a photocopy of the front and back of your valid photo ID. Examples include:

• State-issued driver’s license
• Non-driver photo ID
• Military ID
• Passport
• Prison or inmate ID

If you don't have any of these IDs, please see Passport Vital Records IDs.

3. Get a check or money order. The cost is $50 for each record you request.

• Make payable to the "U.S. Department of State"
• Include a complete mailing address on the check
• Must be payable in U.S. dollars through a U.S. bank

4. Mail Form DS-5542, a photocopy of the ID, and payment to:

    U.S. Department of State
    Passport Vital Records Section
    44132 Mercure Cir.
    PO Box 1213
    Sterling, VA  20166-1213

We can only provide official copies of records on file with the U.S. Department of State.

Processing Times

• Once we receive your request in our office, we should process it in 4 to 8 weeks. 
• Some documents may take longer than 8 weeks to locate. We do not offer expedited service.
• Mailing times (which may add up to 4 weeks) are not included in processing times.
• To avoid delays, provide complete information on your Form DS-5542 and include all your supporting documents.

Shipping

We will send your vital record to you. You can select First Class Mail or 1-2 Day Delivery:

• USPS First Class Mail: Takes one to two weeks. No extra charge. 
• 1-2 Day Delivery Service: Add $21.36 to the check or money order. 

An apostille certifies a document so countries in the 1961 Hague Convention will recognize it. 

We only put apostilles on CRDAs issued in the last five years. We cannot place an apostille on a CRDA issued overseas without certifying the signature of the officer on the record.

If you need an apostille on a CRDA, you must submit a:

1. Notarized, completed Form DS-5542
2. Photocopy of a valid photo ID (examples: state-issued driver's license, passport, or military ID) 
3. Check or money order. The cost is $50 if you need a new copy of a CRDA.
   1. Make payable to the "U.S. Department of State"
   2. Include a complete mailing address on the check
   3. Must be payable in U.S. dollars through a U.S. bank

Mail your notarized Form DS-5542, photocopy of your ID, and payment to:

    U.S. Department of State
    Passport Vital Records
    44132 Mercure Circle
    PO Box 1213
    Sterling, VA 20166-1213