If you've lost or damaged your birth certificate, you're not alone. A replacement California birth certificate is an official certified copy issued by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and carries the same legal weight as the original.
Is a Replacement the Same as the Original?
Yes. A certified copy issued as a replacement is legally valid and accepted by all government agencies, employers, and institutions. It can be used for passport applications, driver's licenses, Social Security applications, school enrollment, and more.
There is no distinction between a "replacement" and a standard certified copy — both are official documents issued by CDPH.
Who Can Request a Replacement?
California law (Health and Safety Code Section 103526) restricts who can receive a certified copy of a birth certificate. Authorized requesters include:
- The person named on the certificate (if age 18 or older)
- A parent or legal guardian
- A spouse or domestic partner
- A child, grandparent, grandchild, or sibling
- An attorney or legal representative acting on behalf of an authorized person
- A party entitled to receive the record by court order
If you don't qualify for a certified copy, you may still be eligible to receive a Certified Informational Copy, which is a public record but is marked "Not A Valid Document to Establish Identity."
How to Order a Replacement California Birth Certificate
Order Online
The fastest option is ordering online. Submit your application through our secure order form, complete the required notarized sworn statement through NotaryLive.com, and your replacement certificate will be mailed directly to you.
Order by Mail
You can mail a completed application to CDPH or the county recorder's office in the county where the birth occurred. Download the application, get the sworn statement notarized, and mail everything with a check for $31 per copy. See the Order by Mail page for the full mailing address. For a complete cost breakdown, visit the fees page.
What You'll Need to Apply
To request a replacement you will need:
- Full name as it appears on the birth certificate
- Date of birth
- City or county of birth
- Parent names as listed on the original certificate
- A notarized Sworn Statement (required by California law)
Ready to Order?
You can order a replacement California birth certificate online through our secure order form. The process is straightforward and your certificate will be mailed directly to you.