Pre-Adoption Birth Certificate FAQ Sheet

On November 14, 2019, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo signed legislation (S3419/A5494) which allows adoptees to receive a copy of their pre-adoption birth certificate when they turn 18 years old. The application process begins on January 15, 2020.

The information provided in this Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document relates primarily to adoptees born outside of the 5 boroughs of New York City. Adoptees born within New York City should contact the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for information on how to obtain pre-adoption birth certificates from within their jurisdiction.

For answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding obtaining birth certificates, click here.