Colorado Application to Access an Original Birth Certificate Prior to Adoption

Who can use this form

• Direct access: an adult adoptee, an adoptive parent or custodial grandparent of a minor adoptee, or a birth parent (original birth certificate only).
• Direct access: a sibling with one birth parent in common who was relinquished or adopted (must provide proof).
• With notarized written consent of the adult adoptee: a spouse, adoptive parent, adoptive sibling, adult descendant or grandparent of an adult adoptee.
• If the adult adoptee is deceased, a certified copy of the death certificate replaces the consent.
• A legal representative of any of these people.

What to send with it

• The completed, signed application.
• A valid ID.
• Proof of relationship.
• Where consent is required: the adult adoptee's notarized consent on the form and a photocopy of the adoptee's identification.
• A check or money order payable to Vital Records, or credit card information.

Where to send it

Mail to

Vital Records, Birth Unit 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South Denver, CO 80246

State fee

$50.00; additional copies $20.00; amended copy (siblings and half siblings only) $20.00; expedited return shipping $21.00; regular mail $0.00; credit card convenience charge $12.00. All fees are non-refundable.

Typical processing

The form says 30 business days from the date received on all requests.

Form revision

Rev. 1/2026

Source

Official government page