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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

Estimated processing times:

  • Infant (Age Less Than 1 Year Old) – 13 weeks
  • Child (Age 1 Year to Less Than 7 Years Old) – 13 weeks
  • Child (Age 7 Years to Less Than 14 Years Old) – 13 weeks
  • Child (Age 14 Years to Less Than 18 Years Old) – 13 weeks
  • Adult (Age 18 Years Old and Above) – 13 weeks
  • Adoption – Estimated processing time is 6 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.