Iowa Adoption Laws

Access to Adoption Records

Obtaining Non-Identifying Information:

Adopted adults and birth parents may obtain non-identifying information.

Obtaining Identifying Information:

Adopted adults can receive information regarding the birth parents or birth siblings if they have filed a consent to the release of their information.
Legal Reference: http://www.legis.state.ia.us/IACODE/2001/600/16A.html

Using the Adoption Registry:

The following parties may register: Adult adoptees age 18 or older who were born in Iowa; birth parents of children born in Iowa who have reached age 18 and were adopted; adult birth siblings (age 18 or older) of adult adoptees. All blood-related children of a birth parent must be 18 or older before information is released. Individuals may register by submitting a $25 fee, notarized application, and certified copy of their birth certificate.

Contact:

Iowa Department of Public Health
Bureau of Vital Records
Adoption Registry Program
Lucas State Office Building, 1st Floor
Des Moines, Iowa 50319-0075
(515) 281-6263

Obtaining an Original Birth Certificate:

An adoptee must petition the court in which the adoption was finalized.

Accessing Adoption Records:

Adoption records are sealed and can only be opened by court order except if the adoption was final prior to July 4, 1941, and the adoption was not required to be sealed.

Credits: Child Welfare Information Gateway (http://www.childwelfare.gov)