SERVICES

Adoption Records Search

All adoption records are confidential in accordance with State and Federal laws.

For adoptions completed through DSHS and families who adopted a child in state foster care, adoption records are archived through the Children's Administration headquarters office in Olympia.

Identifying Information

Washington State does not have a central registry. In order to gain access to confidential identifying information, a court order must be obtained. Washington State utilizes court-appointed confidential intermediaries to assist in the search process.

Following is information on Washington State laws governing the release of information:

• Confidential Intermediaries (RCW 26.33.343)
• Noncertified copies of original birth certificate (RCW 26.33.345)
• Consent or refusal to release adoptee's identifying information (RCW 26.33.347)

Non-Identifying Information

To obtain non-identifying information for children who have been adopted through DSHS, a written request must be submitted to:

Adoption Archives
PO Box 45713
Olympia, WA 98504

Please include:

• Date of birth and adoptive name
• Name of adoptive parents
• Return mailing address

For private adoptions, contact the agency that facilitated the adoption.