Birth and death records are centralized in a statewide electronic system. Individuals can get certificates from any county in the state or from the state office. Walk in service is available at county local issuance offices only; the state only provides service by mail. Visit www.health.state.mn.us/divs/chs/osr/birth.html for more information. Copies may be obtained from this section, or from local registrar in each county. Birth records prior to 1900, contact the local offices. For death records prior to 1908, contact the local issuance office. Records through the state are available by email, fax, or mail and take approximately 4 - 6 weeks to process the request.