Processing Times
Processing times refers to the length of time that it takes Vital Records to process your application from the date we receive your complete application. General processing times are listed below. If your application exceeds the published processing times, you can call us to inquire about the status of your application.
Processing times may be delayed due to application information issues. Additional processing time may be required for applications that involve items such as the following: Genealogical requests, subpoenas, court orders, or power of attorneys.
Application for a Birth Certificate
- Online orders placed through mycertificates.health.pa.gov – Estimated processing time is 2 weeks
- Paper applications mailed to the Division of Vital Records: Estimated processing time is 2 weeks
Application for a Death Certificate
- Online orders placed through mycertificates.health.pa.gov – Estimated processing time is 3 weeks
- Paper applications mailed to the Division of Vital Records: Estimated processing time is 4 weeks
Adoptee's Application for a Noncertified Copy of Original Birth Record
- Paper applications mailed to the Division of Vital Records: Estimated processing time is 45 days
Requests for a Correction to a Birth Record
- Child under 1 year of age – Estimated processing time is 9 weeks
- All individuals over 1 year of age – Estimated processing time is 4 weeks
- Adoption – Estimated processing time is 2 weeks
Requests for a Correction to a Death Record
- Estimated processing times is 14 weeks
Public Office Processing Times
In-person services are available from our public offices. Click on
Office Locations for the list of services available and processing times at each location.