How do I get a certified copy of my birth certificate?
You will need to write to the Vital Records office for the state you were born in. Try this website: https://www.vitalchek.com/v/ You can order your documents through that website.
Do I need to mail a copy of my birth certificate with my passport application?
Yes, include a certified copy of your birth certificate with your DS-11 (new) passport application. You’ll see this in the passport application instructions. https://nationalstatus.info/the-remedy/passports/
Do I need to mail my birth certificate with my affidavit?
No, you will need to mail only the cover letter and affidavit of citizenship evidence to the U.S. Secretary of State.
I could only get a photocopy of my certificate of live birth.
Should I send a copy of that along with a certified birth certificate for the passport application? Either one should suffice, as long as it’s a copy generated by your state rather than a copy you’ve made on a printer.
Why do we need to get 3-5 copies of the birth certificate?
It is a good idea to get several certified copies of your birth certificate. You will need a copy for your passport application, and there may be other legal documents that will require a certified copy attached.