Adoption FAQs

I adopted a child and would like to have the birth certificate changed to the new information. What do I need to do?

To file a new birth certificate based on an adoption of a child who was born in Texas*, applicants must work with their attorney and/or district clerk. For complete details, see New Birth Certificate Based on Adoption.

How do birth certificates identify an adopted child's parents if both parents are of the same sex?

The new birth certificate based on adoption will include both parents' names as long as both parents are listed on the court order or formal certificate of adoption as the adoptive parents. Each parent listed can elect to be referenced as "mother," "father," or "parent" on the new birth certificate.

How do I request a de-identified copy of my Health, Social, Education, and Genetic History (HSEGH) records from a closed child-placing agency or for a private non-relative adoption?

For complete instructions and eligibility requirements, see the HSEGH page.

How do I request a de-identified copy of my adoption records from a closed child-placing agency?

For more information, see the Closed Child-Placing Agencies page.

How do I request the opening of a sealed adoption record or get my birthparents’ information?

For complete instructions and eligibility requirements, see Requesting Sealed Adoption Records.

I am adopted and would like to get a copy of my original birth certificate. How do I do that?

For complete instructions and eligibility requirements, see Adult Adoptee Application for Non-Certified Copy of Original Birth Certificate.