Illinois Vital Records - Adoption Records

Commemorative Birth Certificates

To recognize the rich heritage and individuality of her offspring, Illinois has introduced this personalized, legal birth certificate.

When the commemorative document was designed, Illinois was prominent in the artist's mind. The handcrafted border incorporates the state flower — the violet — and the leaf of our state tree — the white oak — into the Prairie-style stained glass motif of Frank Lloyd Wright, whose architecture graces the state.

To enhance the lasting value of the certificate, the birth information is entered in calligraphy on heirloom quality paper. It is a beautiful document that can be passed from generation to generation... a keepsake to mark the beginning of a new life, to remember a special birthdate or to celebrate a notable occasion.

The price is $40. The governor and the General Assembly have directed that the proceeds will be equally divided between the Illinois Child Abuse Prevention Fund and the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Your contribution through this birth certificate could give a human being a more meaningful life. It is also a keepsake that you and your family will cherish for years to come.

Ordering Information

Actual size is 9" wide x 20" long
Click certificate for full size image

What is a commemorative birth certificate?

The commemorative birth certificate is a 9" wide x 20" official birth record signed by the governor and state registrar designed to be given as a keepsake to mark the beginning of a new life. The governor and the General Assembly have directed that the proceeds from the sale of these documents will be equally divided between the Illinois Child Abuse Prevention Fund and the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

How do I obtain one?

Under Illinois law, individuals eligible to receive a copy of a birth certificate are a person 18 or older, a parent shown on the record, or a guardian/legal representative of the child (written evidence of guardianship or legal representation required). Commemorative birth certificates are not available for individuals whose records were filed prior to 1916.

If you are ordering the certificate as a gift, but are not eligible to receive the record, the Division of Vital Records will forward the certificate to the eligible recipient. You must supply the recipient's name and address.

Download this application, PDF format, fill in the information requested and print it out.

The fee for a commemorative birth certificate is $40 for each copy. Make checks or money orders payable to the "Illinois Department of Public Health" (Do not send cash) and send the application and fee to:

Illinois Department of Public Health
Division of Vital Records
925 East Ridgely Ave.
Springfield, IL 62702-2737

*Be sure to include a legible/readable copy of your valid photo identification. If not provided, unreadable or expired, the request will be returned unprocessed.

Please allow six to eight weeks for delivery.