New Legislation Streamlines Access to Birth Certificates for Adoptees and Their Families in North Carolina effective January 1, 2026

Last Updated 1/6/2026 • Posted in News

December 31, 2025 Effective January 1, 2026, North Carolina’s S.L. 20259 (Senate Bill 248) updates G.S. 489107 and G.S. 130A to allow adopted individuals to request their new birth certificates directly from their local Register of Deeds office — just as nonadopted individuals do. Previously, these records were available only through the State Registrar.

The new law authorizes the adoptee, adoptive parents, the adoptee’s spouse, the adoptee’s children, and siblings within the adoptive family to obtain certified copies of the new birth certificate (containing adoptive parent information only) from the county of birth.

Signed into law by Governor Josh Stein in 2025, SB 248 creates a more efficient and convenient process for families seeking this vital record. Under the prior system, requests had to be submitted through the NC Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS) Office of Vital Records — a process that often took weeks or even months.

If a birth certificate for an adopted person born in the county has not yet been digitized, the Register of Deeds may request digitization through the NCOVR Portal. The law requires the State Registrar to complete digitization within two business days, significantly improving turnaround times.

“This legislation is a tremendous win for adoptees, their adoptive families, and Register of Deeds offices across North Carolina,” said Renee Holland, Iredell County Register of Deeds. “By allowing these records to be issued at the local level, we can provide more timely, efficient service while maintaining the integrity and security of vital records.”

Citizens who believe they may be eligible to request a birth certificate under the new law are encouraged to contact the Register of Deeds Office for information on identification requirements and processing.

Holland added, “The Register of Deeds office is governed by NC General Statutes and is responsible for maintaining and issuing vital records — including birth, death, and marriage certificates — serving as a trusted resource for our community.”

For more information about SB 248 or other services provided by the Register of Deeds, please contact their office at 7048727468. ###

About Iredell County Government Iredell County Government is committed to serving residents and businesses by providing high-quality public services, fostering economic development, and enhancing the overall quality of life. Incorporated in 1788, Iredell County is located in the central section of North Carolina and encompasses the city of Statesville and towns of Harmony, Love Valley, Mooresville and Troutman.

CONTACT: Darsee Heath, Strategy & Communications Manager 704-838-1609, [email protected]