Los Angeles County Birth Certificate records are official documents issued when a child is born within the city of Los Angeles or any unincorporated area of the county. These certificates are entered into the County Registrar’s system and serve as legal proof of identity, citizenship, and parentage. They include the baby’s full name, date and time of birth, place of birth, parents’ legal names, and the mother’s maiden name. Certified copies are required for many life events such as applying for a passport, enrolling in school, getting married, or obtaining a Social Security number. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person at the Registrar-Recorder office located at 12400 East Imperial Highway, Norwalk, CA 90650.
Who Can Request a Los Angeles County Birth Certificate?
Only authorized individuals may request a certified copy of a Los Angeles County Birth Certificate. Eligible requesters include the person named on the certificate, a parent or legal guardian, a court-appointed representative, an attorney with a valid court order, or a researcher with documented scholarly purpose. Each applicant must provide proper identification and complete a notarized Certificate of Identity form. This ensures the privacy and security of vital records while allowing legitimate access for legal, medical, or personal needs.
How to Order a Los Angeles County Birth Certificate Online
The fastest way to get a Los Angeles County Birth Certificate is through the official online portal powered by VitalChek. This service is authorized by the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk (RR/CC) and provides secure, trackable delivery. To place an order, applicants must provide the full name of the person on the certificate, exact birth date, place of birth, and relationship to the requester. A scanned copy of a government-issued photo ID and a notarized Certificate of Identity are required. The standard fee is $22, and processing takes 10–12 business days. Expedited service is available for an additional $15, reducing delivery time to five business days.
Mail-In Request Process for Birth Certificates
Applicants who prefer traditional mail can submit a request to the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder office at P.O. Box 489, Norwalk, CA 90651-0489. The required documents include a completed Application for Birth Record, a notarized Certificate of Identity with a copy of a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport), and a check or money order for the $22 fee. The form must be signed under penalty of perjury. Standard mail requests are processed within 15 business days after all materials are received. Expedited service adds $15 and shortens processing to five business days. All forms are available for download at www.lavote.net.
In-Person Appointment Options
For immediate service, individuals can schedule an in-person appointment at the main office in Norwalk. The address is 12400 East Imperial Highway, Room 1002, Norwalk, CA 90650. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. During the visit, applicants must bring a completed application, a notarized Certificate of Identity, and a valid government-issued photo ID. Certified copies are printed on secure paper and handed over within 30 minutes if all requirements are met. Appointments help reduce wait times and ensure staff availability. Walk-ins are accepted but may experience longer delays during peak hours.
Required Documents and Identification
Every request for a Los Angeles County Birth Certificate requires two key documents: a completed Application for Birth Record and a notarized Certificate of Identity. The Certificate of Identity must include a clear copy of a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. The signature on both forms must match the ID exactly. Notarization confirms the applicant’s identity and prevents fraud. Without these documents, the request will be delayed or rejected. All forms are free and downloadable from the official county website at www.lavote.net.
Fees and Payment Methods
The current fee for a certified copy of a Los Angeles County Birth Certificate is $22. Expedited processing costs an additional $15. Payments can be made online via credit or debit card through VitalChek, by check or money order for mail requests, or in person using cash, check, or card. All fees are non-refundable, even if the record cannot be located. The county does not accept cash for mail orders. Make checks payable to “Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder.”
Processing Times and Delivery
Standard processing for mailed requests takes 15 business days from receipt of complete documentation. Online orders via VitalChek are typically fulfilled in 10–12 business days. Expedited service reduces this to five business days for an extra $15. In-person requests are completed within 30 minutes during scheduled appointments. Delivery is via U.S. Postal Service with tracking for online orders. Applicants should allow extra time for holidays or high-volume periods such as back-to-school season.
Birth Records Availability and Eligibility
Los Angeles County maintains birth records dating back to 1866. Records become available for release 10 days after the original certificate is filed with the county. Births that occurred in Long Beach or Pasadena are handled by their respective city health departments and are not included in the county system. Only births within unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County or within the city of Los Angeles are managed by the RR/CC. Requests for births outside the county or state must be directed to the appropriate jurisdiction.
Amending or Correcting a Birth Certificate
If there is an error on a Los Angeles County Birth Certificate, such as a misspelled name or incorrect date, a correction must be requested through the Registrar-Recorder office. This requires submitting a formal amendment application, supporting legal documentation (like a court order or hospital record), and a notarized affidavit. The process can take several weeks and may involve additional fees. Contact the office at (562) 462-2137 for specific instructions based on the type of correction needed.
Historical and Genealogical Research Requests
Researchers seeking birth records for genealogical or scholarly purposes must provide documented proof of their project and relationship to the individual (if applicable). Requests are reviewed case by case and may require approval from the county clerk. Historical records older than 100 years may be accessible without strict identity verification, but access is still subject to privacy laws. All research requests must be submitted by mail or in person—online ordering is not available for non-immediate family members.
VitalChek: Authorized Online Service Provider
VitalChek is the only third-party vendor officially authorized by Los Angeles County to process online birth certificate requests. It offers a secure, user-friendly platform with real-time tracking and customer support. Orders placed through VitalChek follow the same verification standards as in-person requests, including notarized identity confirmation. The service supports requests for birth, death, marriage, and divorce records across California. Customers receive email updates throughout the process and can contact support at 866-212-1045.
Public Health Role in Birth Registration
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health works closely with the Registrar-Recorder to ensure accurate and timely birth registration. Hospitals, midwives, and birthing centers report all live births to the health department, which then forwards the information to the county registrar. This partnership ensures that every child born in the county receives a legal birth certificate. The Public Health Vital Records division does not process direct requests but supports the system that makes certificates available to the public.
Child Support and Automatic Certificate Distribution
When a birth is registered in Los Angeles County, one certified copy of the birth certificate is automatically sent to the Child Support Services (CSW) office in Glendora. This helps establish paternity and support obligations when needed. Parents do not need to request this copy—it is generated as part of the registration process. Additional copies must be requested separately by eligible individuals using the standard application process.
Contact Information and Office Locations
The main office for birth certificate requests is located at 12400 East Imperial Highway, Norwalk, CA 90650. Phone: (562) 462-2137 or toll-free (800) 201-8999. Email inquiries should be sent through the contact form on www.lavote.net. Office hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Satellite offices may have limited services, so it’s best to call ahead. Mailing address for applications: P.O. Box 489, Norwalk, CA 90651-0489.
Common Reasons for Requesting a Birth Certificate
- Applying for a U.S. passport
- Enrolling in school or college
- Obtaining a Social Security number
- Getting married (required for marriage license)
- Legal name changes or court proceedings
- Genealogy or family history research
- Adoption or immigration paperwork
Frequently Asked Questions About Los Angeles County Birth Certificates
Many people have questions about how to get, correct, or use a Los Angeles County Birth Certificate. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on official county policies and procedures. These responses are designed to clarify requirements, timelines, and eligibility so you can complete your request quickly and correctly.
Can I get a birth certificate for someone born in Long Beach?
No. Long Beach maintains its own vital records system separate from Los Angeles County. If the birth occurred within the city limits of Long Beach, you must contact the Long Beach Health Department directly. Similarly, Pasadena handles its own records. Only births in unincorporated county areas or within the city of Los Angeles are managed by the county Registrar-Recorder.
How long does it take to receive a birth certificate by mail?
Mailed requests take up to 15 business days after the county receives all required documents. This includes processing, verification, printing, and mailing. If you use expedited service for an extra $15, the time drops to five business days. Always allow extra time for postal delivery, especially during holidays or inclement weather.
Do I need to notarize the Certificate of Identity?
Yes. Every mail and online request requires a notarized Certificate of Identity. This form must be signed in front of a notary public, who will verify your photo ID and stamp the document. Without notarization, your application will be rejected. You can find notaries at banks, UPS stores, or through mobile notary services.
Can a grandparent request a birth certificate?
Generally, no. Only the person named on the record, their parent, legal guardian, attorney with a court order, or a verified researcher may request a certified copy. Grandparents are not automatically eligible unless they have legal guardianship or a court order. Exceptions are rare and require documentation submitted with the application.
What if I don’t know the exact birth date?
You must provide the exact date of birth to process your request. If you’re unsure, check hospital records, baby books, or family documents. The county cannot search by name alone due to privacy laws. If the date is approximate, your request may be delayed or denied. Contact the office if you need help locating the correct information.
Is there a fee waiver for low-income applicants?
No. Los Angeles County does not offer fee waivers for birth certificate requests. The $22 fee is set by state law and applies to all applicants regardless of income. However, some nonprofit organizations or legal aid clinics may assist with fees in special circumstances. Check with local social service agencies for possible support.
Can I track my online order status?
Yes. When you order through VitalChek, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a tracking number. You can log in to your account or call VitalChek customer service at 866-212-1045 to check progress. The county does not provide tracking for mail-in requests, so consider using certified mail with return receipt for proof of delivery.
Official Resources and Links
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official Los Angeles County websites. Below are direct links to forms, instructions, and contact details. Do not rely on third-party sites for legal advice or processing—only the county and VitalChek are authorized to issue certified copies.
- Application for Birth Record: https://rrcc.lacounty.gov/RECORDER/PDFS/BirthRecord.pdf
- Online Request Portal: https://www.lavote.gov/home/records/birth-records/birth-records-request/online-request
- Mail Request Instructions: https://www.lavote.gov/home/records/birth-records/birth-records-request/mail-request
- In-Person Appointments: https://www.lavote.gov/home/records/birth-records/birth-records-request/inperson-request
- VitalChek Ordering: https://www.vitalchek.com/birth-certificates/california/los-angeles-county-registrar-recorder
Phone, Address, and Visiting Hours
Main Office Address: 12400 East Imperial Highway, Norwalk, CA 90650
Phone: (562) 462-2137 or (800) 201-8999
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 489, Norwalk, CA 90651-0489
Email: Use the contact form at www.lavote.net
Website: www.lavote.net
Final Tips for a Successful Request
To avoid delays, double-check that your application is complete, your ID is current, and your Certificate of Identity is properly notarized. Use black ink when filling out paper forms and ensure all signatures match your ID exactly. If ordering online, upload clear, high-resolution scans. Keep copies of everything you send. If you don’t receive your certificate within the expected timeframe, contact the office promptly. Most issues can be resolved quickly with proper documentation and communication.