Otero County Birth Certificate Access
Otero County birth records are available at the Health Department in La Junta. The office sits in Room 111 of the County Courthouse on West Third Street. They issue certified copies of birth certificates. Records for any Colorado birth can be obtained there.
The county lies in southeastern Colorado. It is a rural area with strong agricultural roots. Many residents need birth certificates for various reasons. The local office provides this service close to home. You do not need to travel to Denver.
Otero County Quick Facts
Otero County Health Department Vital Records
The Otero County Health Department provides vital records services. Their office is in the courthouse. This central location makes it easy to find. Staff can help with birth certificate requests. They also serve Crowley County residents.
| Office | Otero County Health Department |
|---|---|
| Address | 13 W. Third St., Room 111 La Junta, CO 81050 |
| Phone | 719-383-3040 |
| Website | oterogov.com |
The office hours are typically Monday through Friday. Call ahead to confirm. Some services may require an appointment. The staff is friendly and helpful. They will guide you through the process.
How to Get Otero County Birth Certificates
Getting birth records in Otero County is simple. Visit the La Junta office in person. Bring your photo ID and payment. Same-day service is often available. Most visits are quick.
Mail orders are accepted if you cannot visit. Complete the state application form. Include a copy of your ID. Send payment by check or money order. Allow time for processing and mail delivery.
Online ordering works through state-approved vendors. VitalChek and GoCertificates both serve Colorado. They add fees for their service. Your certificate arrives by mail.
Otero County Birth Certificate Fees
Fees are set by Colorado state law. The first copy costs twenty-five dollars. Each extra copy costs twenty dollars. Order them together to get the discount. These prices started in January 2026.
The Otero County office accepts cash, checks, and money orders. Credit card acceptance varies. Call 719-383-3040 to ask about current payment options. Online orders always take cards but add service charges.
No refunds are given if no record is found. The search fee covers the work of looking. Be certain of your information before ordering.
Otero County Birth Record Eligibility
Colorado restricts who can get birth certificates. Privacy laws protect this information. You must be eligible to request a record. You must also prove your identity.
The person on the certificate can always order. Parents listed on the record may request copies. Adult children need proof of relationship. Spouses must show a marriage certificate. Legal guardians need court documents.
Valid photo ID is required at the Otero office. A current driver's license works well. A passport or state ID also works. Do not bring expired documents. If you lack primary ID, bring two secondary forms.
Home Birth Registration in Otero County
Babies born at home need proper registration. Parents must file with the local office. This must happen within one year of birth. The Otero County Health Department can help with this process.
You will need proof of residency. Other documents may be required too. Call the office at 719-383-3040. They will explain what you need. Early registration prevents problems later.
Shared Services with Crowley County
The Otero County Health Department serves two counties. They handle vital records for both Otero and Crowley. This is common in rural Colorado. It makes efficient use of resources.
Residents of Crowley County use the same La Junta office. The process is identical. Fees are the same. Service is consistent across both counties.
State Vital Records Office Option
You can also order from the Colorado State Vital Records Office. They are located in Denver at 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South. Call 303-692-2200 for information. The state office requires appointments.
Online ordering is available through VitalChek and GoCertificates. Both are approved by the state. They process orders from anywhere in Colorado. Your certificate arrives by mail.
The state office also handles delayed birth registrations. If you need to register a birth that happened more than one year ago, contact them. The process requires additional documentation.
La Junta is a historic community in southeastern Colorado. It sits along the Arkansas River. The area has a rich agricultural heritage. The Otero County Health Department serves this community with pride.
Nearby Counties
If La Junta is not convenient, try these nearby offices: