Minnesota Voluntary Recognition of Parentage (DHS-3159)
Minnesota Department of Human ServicesParentage and paternityForm DHS-3159Free downloadLast verified November 10, 2026
Establishes a legal father and child relationship when the biological father is not married to the mother. It is filed with the Minnesota Department of Health, Office of Vital Records, which then adds the father's name to the birth record.
Who can use this form
- The mother and the biological father, when they are not married to each other
- Both parents sign voluntarily in front of a notary public
- If the mother was married to someone else, her spouse must also sign and file a Spouse's Non-Parentage Statement (DHS-3159C)
- Parents who are unsure who the biological father is should not sign and should have a genetic test
What to send with it
- The completed form, signed by both parents in front of a notary public
- Information that matches the child's birth record
- A new form if you make a mistake; do not cross out words, leave blanks or make corrections
- Read the booklet Being a Legal Father (DHS-3159A) before signing
- Fax the form to 877-490-5564, or mail it if you cannot fax
Where to send it
- Mail to
- Minnesota Department of Health Office of Vital Records P.O. Box 64499 St. Paul, MN 55164-0499
- State fee
- The form does not print a fee. The Minnesota Department of Health website says there is no cost to file a Recognition of Parentage.
- Typical processing
- Not provided
- Issued by
- Minnesota Department of Human Services
- Form revision
- 2-25
- Source
- Official government page