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FAQ's

Birth Records FAQs

How do I add my child’s father to the birth certificate?

Please contact the California Department of Public Health for assistance. www.cdph.ca.gov – (916) 445-2684. Search “Add Parent on a Birth Certificate.” Visit this link for more information on the process: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Adjudication-of-Facts-of-Parentage.aspx

How do I fix an error on a birth certificate?

Amendments to birth records are handled by the California Department of Public Health. Please visit their website for assistance on amending a record. Visit www.cdph.ca.gov. Search “amend birth record.” Call (916) 445-2684.

My child was just born, how do I get a copy of the birth certificate?

After birth registration, most birth certificates are available after 10 days from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Please contact that office for these rush certificates. Call (213) 288-7812. Visit: http://www.ph.lacounty.gov/dca/dcabirth.htm. The birth certificate is available with this office after two months.

My child was born at home. How do I get the birth certificate?

The child must first be registered with the local health department. Please contact the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH Vital Records Office) located at 313 North Figueroa Street, Room Lobby-1, Los Angeles, CA 90012. For questions, call (213) 288-7812 and/or email: VRO@ph.lacounty.gov. Visit this link for more information on the registration process: http://www.ph.lacounty.gov/dca/dcabirthhome.htm Note: The child must be registered as soon as possible.

Are birth certificate copies sent automatically after the child is born?

No, the hospital reports the birth information to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health only. Once registered, you must submit an application and fee to obtain the record. You may order the certificate from this office after 2 months of the child’s birth. If needed sooner, please contact the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health: www.ph.lacounty.gov – 213-288-7812.

I have an abstract, but DMV will not accept it, can I get it replaced?

No, abstracts are no longer issued and cannot be replaced. You must order an authorized copy of the birth certificate which can be used for all legal purposes. Certificate fees will apply.

How do I order a “long form” birth certificate?

There are three ways to order a certified copy of the birth record. You may order by mail, online or in-person. Visit this link for ordering options: https://lavote.gov/home/records/birth-records/birth-records-request/who-can-obtain-a-copy-of-a-birth-record .

What is the difference between a Department of Public Health and RR/CC certificate?

Just who issued it. The information and the validity of the certificate are the same.

How do I get a certificate authenticated for an apostille?

Certificates from the RR/CC can be submitted to the Secretary of State for the apostille.

Are walk-ins allowed to obtain a birth record?

Yes. all branch offices offer walk-in services. You can also book an in-person appointment here.

How can I get a copy of my birth certificate when all results show no record found?

Please contact the California Department of Public Health for assistance. Call 916-445-2684 – www.cdph.ca.gov.

I need my certificate right away. Is there an expedited service?

No, at this time there is no expedited service.

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