A birth certificate is one of the most important documents an individual possesses. These vital records online act as proof of citizenship, age, identity, and address. They are also subject to state and federal laws, which define the regulations for what should be sealed and how one obtains or replaces a certified copy of a birth certificate. This article looks at six things that require the use of U.S. birth certificates:

1. To get a social security number (SSN)

In most cases, you’ll need your birth certificate to apply for a social security number for your child. The Social Security Administration(SSA) will verify the information on the document against its records, and if the information matches, your child will receive a new SSN card. If you misplaced the child’s original birth certificate, you have to order another one from the state where they were born.

2. To apply for a passport

When applying for your first passport, you must provide a certified copy of your birth certificate as proof of U.S. citizenship. If your original birth certificate was lost or destroyed in a natural disaster (such as a fire or flood), if you need replacement copies for legal reasons, or if you’ve never had a birth certificate, it’s imperative that you obtain one immediately.

3. For proof of age and school enrollment

You may need a birth certificate to prove you are old enough to do something. For example, most states require drivers between the ages of 16 and 18 to have a learner’s permit before getting behind the wheel with an experienced driver. You’ll also need a certified copy of your birth certificate to enroll in public or private schools. If your child has lost their birth certificate, you may contact the hospital where you gave birth and ask if they have a copy of your child’s original birth certificate or whether they could provide one.

4. To gain employment

Federal or private employers often require applicants to submit copies of their birth certificates as part of their background check process. If you have misplaced your birth certificate, you can apply for a replacement copy through your state’s health department’s website. The process varies by state, so check your local government office for more information.

5. To get your driver’s license

A birth certificate is one of the documents that you’ll need to apply for your driver’s license. It will prove your identity, age, and legal status. If you don’t have a copy of your birth certificate when applying for a new driver’s license, you may need to contact vital records officials to get one.

6. To identify you by name

A birth certificate serves as the first piece of official identity for a person and a record of their birth. The system checks that the given name spelling is correct. It also validates that the date and place of birth are valid. If you or a loved one has recently changed your last name, you can obtain a replacement or modified birth certificate from your local registrar’s office or state-specific authorities.

These tips should help you understand why keeping copies of your birth certificate handy is important. And because not all states have the same policies and regulations, you must be sure to check out your state’s laws and policies. Whether you’re applying for a replacement birth certificate or getting one for the first time, understanding these requirements will keep you from experiencing unnecessary delays or headaches.