How to Find Delaware Birth Records

Registration of births began in 1861 but was discontinued in 1863. Statewide registration resumed in 1881 and was generally complied with by 1921.

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Next Step: When did the birth occur?

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 * Birth Records
 * Choose a time period:


 * Before 1861
 * 1861 - 1913
 * 1913 - Present
 * Birth year unknown


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Births before 1861
Delaware did not have birth registration on a statewide level until 1881. However, some records do exist from other early sources.

You may need to use substitute records to locate your ancestor’s birth date and place.

Return to top: Choose another birth year

Births 1861 - 1913
For births that exist during the time period, try the following databases.

Can't find your ancestor in the online index? Tips for searching online indexes No birth record for your ancestor? Other records with birth information Return to top: Choose another birth year

STEP TWO: Obtain the Certificate
PART A: You know the exact date of birth

With an exact date (from your records or the index above), you can order a copy of the birth record for a fee from the following locations:

If you do not want to order the birth record, you can search other records with birth information.  

PART B: You don't know the exact date of birth

For a fee, the Delaware Public Archives will search for births that occurred since 1913 that are 72 years or older. The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services will search for births less than 72 years old; requests must be placed in person or by mail.

If you do not want to order the birth record, you can search other records with birth information.  Return to top: Choose another birth year

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