Adoption Information

The Ohio Department of Health, Office of Vital Statistics, houses birth and adoption records of persons born in Ohio and adopted anywhere in the United States.  Below is the list of Adoption laws and procedures that are used in Ohio:  

• Adoptions Prior to January 1, 1964 - Adoption records open to people who were born and adopted in Ohio, with proper identification.      
• Adoptions Between January 1, 1964 and September 18, 1996  - Adoption records are sealed and only opened by a probate court order (H.B. 84)      
• Adoptions After September 18, 1996  - Adoption records are open to adoptive parents when the adopted person is between 18-21 years of age.  If the adopted person is 21 years or older, the records are open to the adoptee. Records will only be opened if the required documentation and releases are on file.          

For more information, use the links above to review more information or contact our customer service team at (614) 466-2531.