Good news! The Clerk and Recorder’s office is now connected to the State of Montana system and we are able to issue paper birth certificates of any birth in Montana. The request procedure is the same as if you were born in our County.

How can I get a certified copy of a Birth Certificate?

You must submit a written request by mail or in person, and pay the required fee at the time of the request.  EFFECTIVE OCTOBER 1, 2006:  An ID is required 

Is there more than one type of certified birth certificates available?

In Pondera County we are able to issue a certified birth certificate on 81/2x11" paper or on a card approximately the size of a credit card. The information is typed on the card which is then laminated. It also has the signature and raised seal of the Clerk and Recorder.

If you were born in Montana, we can issue the certificate in either the paper and/or laminated card. NOTE:  THE LAMINATED WALLET CARD CERTIFICATE IS ACCEPTED AT THE CANADIAN BORDER, HOWEVER, IT MAY NOT BE VALID FOR OTHER PURPOSES OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES.

How do I know if I need a paper copy or can use a laminated copy?

Generally, either is acceptable. However, the Social Security Administration and U. S. Passport office require the paper copy. If in doubt, the standard paper copy would be the one you want. Yes, you can purchase one of each if you desire.

You must submit a written request by mail or in person, and pay the required fee at the time of the request.

Only the individual or the legal representative of the individual can get a certified copy of a birth record. A birth record of an individual 30 years or older is considered public record and is available to anyone. The written request for a non-certified copy must also contain all the information required in the written request.

Certified copies are generally required for legal purposes, such as entry into Canada or entry into kindergarten. A certified copy bears the signature and the raised seal of the Clerk and Recorder’s office.

Non-certified or informational copies are generally used for genealogy purposes or to provide a copy to family members. The non-certified copy will have the words "Information Only" stamped in red ink across the face.

Please provide:

• Name of individual (at birth)
• Date of Birth
• Parents names – including the mother’s maiden name
• Your relationship to the child
• Your Signature and the Date
• the appropriate fee
• the address to which you want the certificate returned
• your daytime telephone number in case we need to reach you
• NEW OCTOBER 1, 2006:  copy of a photo ID with signature.

Certified Copy-paper copy $5.00

Certified Copy-laminated copy $6.00

Non-certified copy $2.00

Mail all requests to:

    Pondera County Clerk and Recorder

    20 Fourth Avenue SW, Suite 202

    Conrad MT 59425-2340

Copies of birth certificates are sent back via regular postal service mail within 24 hours of receiving the request. If we are unable to furnish the certificate or need clarification of your request, we will call you if you have included your telephone number in the request.

Last Update: 11/09/2006

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