Caddo Parish Birth Records

We are glad you came here seeking help with Caddo Parish Birth Records. Our goal is to give you the best facts. We want to make your search simple. We will show you how to get the birth records you need. This guide has the key details.

If you need to start a search for Caddo Parish Birth Records right now, you can visit https://louisianaofficialrecords.com/caddo-parish-birth-records/. This site offers a way to begin your search quickly. It may help find the birth records you seek in Caddo Parish. You can find links and tools there to assist you. Check it out if you want to start right away.

Locating Caddo Parish Birth Records

Primary Issuing Offices

You can get official Caddo Parish birth records from two main places. The first is the Caddo Parish Clerk of Court. They offer local access in Shreveport. The second is the Louisiana Bureau of Vital Records and Statistics. This is the state office in New Orleans. It holds records for the whole state. Both offices issue certified copies. These copies are legal documents. You can use them for many official needs. Choosing which office depends on your needs. It also depends on how you want to apply.

Differences Between Local and State Office Access

The Caddo Parish Clerk of Court is great for quick, in-person service. They mainly issue certificates for births that happened in Caddo Parish. They focus on more recent births. They can access the state system. But very old records might need state help. The state office holds all Louisiana birth records. This includes older ones and those from other parishes. The state office accepts mail requests. The Caddo Clerk only accepts in-person requests for birth records. So, if you cannot visit Shreveport, you must use the state office. The state office also handles record changes or adoptions. The Caddo Clerk can only issue copies as they are. Knowing these differences helps you choose the right place. It ensures you use the method that fits your situation best. Plan your request based on where the birth occurred. Also consider how soon you need the record. And decide if you can apply in person or must use mail.

Requesting Birth Certificates in Caddo Parish

Caddo Parish Clerk of Court - Vital Records Division

The Caddo Parish Clerk of Court helps people get birth records locally. You must go there in person.

• Physical Location: The office is in the Caddo Parish Courthouse. The address is 501 Texas Street, Room 103, Shreveport, LA 71101.

• Contact Details: You can call them with questions. The main Clerk number is (318) 226-6776. A number listed for vital records is (318) 226-6780. You can also try (318) 226-6642. Their email for records is records@caddoclerk.com. 

• Hours of Operation: The Clerk's office is open Monday to Friday. Hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. But, you must buy birth certificates between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM. If you arrive after 4:00 PM, you might have to come back the next day. This depends on the state computer system link. The office closes for parish holidays.

• Specific Services: They issue certified copies of Louisiana birth certificates. They can also issue death certificates for deaths from July 9, 2012, to now. They offer a birth certificate long form. They also offer a package with the long form and a birth card.

• Limitations: This office cannot accept mail-in requests for vital records. You must appear in person. They cannot change or amend records. For changes, contact the state office.

Louisiana Bureau of Vital Records and Statistics

The State Registrar holds all Louisiana birth records. It is part of the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH).

• Location: The main office for walk-in service is at 1450 Poydras Street, Suite 400, New Orleans, LA 70112. Their mailing address is P.O. Box 60630, New Orleans, LA 70160.

• Contact Details: The main phone number is (504) 593-5100.

• Statewide Service Scope: They issue certificates for births anywhere in Louisiana. They handle requests for older records. They also process requests for amendments or adoptions.

• How Caddo Parish Records Can Be Requested: You can request Caddo Parish birth records by mail. Send your application to the P.O. Box address. You can also visit the New Orleans office in person. Check the LDH website for any official online ordering options.

Available Types of Louisiana Birth Certificates

Louisiana offers different forms of birth certificates. Each type serves specific needs. Knowing the difference helps you request the right one. The Caddo Parish Clerk offers both types mentioned below, often as a package. The State Registrar primarily issues the long-form certified copy.

Birth Certificate Long Form (Certified Copy of Original Record)

This is the most detailed and official version. It is a full certified copy of the original birth record on file. It contains a lot of information. This includes the child's full name, date and time of birth, parish and city of birth. It lists the parents' full names, ages, and places of birth. It often includes the hospital name. The state seal and registrar's signature make it official. This version is needed for most legal purposes. You need it for getting a U.S. Passport. It is used for school enrollment and job applications. Proving citizenship often requires this form. Applying for social security or other government benefits needs it too. It is key for legal name changes or establishing parentage. Think of it as the primary legal proof of birth.

Birth Certificate Card (Abstract - Issued with Long Form at Clerk)

The Caddo Parish Clerk of Court offers a package. It includes the long-form certificate and a birth certificate card. Act 270 allows this pair to be sold together. The birth card is a smaller, wallet-sized abstract. It has less information than the long form. It usually shows the person's name, date of birth, parish of birth, and sex. It might include the file number and issue date. It is certified but may not be accepted for all legal needs. It is more for convenience. Some local ID needs might accept it. It is easier to carry than the full document. However, federal agencies like the Passport Agency require the long form. Always check which type is needed before you order. The Clerk sells the pair for $48.00. You cannot buy just the card alone from the Clerk.

Eligibility: Who Can Legally Obtain a Caddo Parish Birth Record?

Louisiana Law (Closed Record State - RS 40:41)

Louisiana operates as a "closed record" state. This means birth certificates are not public records. Access is restricted by law to protect privacy. Specifically, Louisiana Revised Statute 40:41 outlines who can get a copy. Birth records are kept confidential for 100 years after the birth year. Only authorized people can request a copy during this time. After 100 years, the records become public. They are then available through the Louisiana State Archives. This law ensures personal birth information is safe. It prevents identity theft and fraud. You must prove you are eligible to receive a certificate. Proper ID is always required.

Authorized Individuals

State law (LA RS 40:41) clearly lists who can get a birth certificate. You must provide proof of your identity. You may also need proof of your relationship to the person on the record. Authorized persons include:

• The Registrant: The person named on the birth certificate (if 18 or older, or emancipated).

• The Spouse: The current legal spouse of the registrant.

• A Parent: The mother or father listed on the birth certificate.

• An Adult Child: A son or daughter (18 or older) of the registrant.

• A Sibling: A brother or sister (18 or older) of the registrant. Proof may be needed.

• A Grandparent: A maternal or paternal grandparent of the registrant.

• An Adult Grandchild: A grandchild (18 or older) of the registrant.

• The Legal Guardian: Must present a signed court order showing legal custody. Notarized papers are not enough.

• An Attorney: Must represent one of the people listed above. Must provide a written statement on letterhead. It must list their bar roll number. It must state who they represent.

Proof of identity usually means a valid state-issued photo ID. This could be a driver's license, state ID card, military ID, or passport. Sometimes, secondary documents might be needed. Proof of relationship might require your own birth certificate. Or it could mean a marriage certificate or custody order. Always bring proper ID and proof when requesting.

Information Required for a Birth Record Request

Essential Details

To find the correct birth record, specific details are needed. You must provide accurate information about the person whose record is sought. This includes their full name at the time of birth. Spell it correctly. Provide the exact date of birth: month, day, and year. You need the place of birth. Specify the city or town within Caddo Parish where the birth happened. Include the mother's full maiden name. This is her last name before she married. Also provide the father's full name, if he is listed on the record. Having these core details helps the clerk find the right certificate quickly. Missing or wrong information can cause delays. It might even prevent them from finding the record at all. Double-check all spellings and dates before you submit your request.

Applicant Information

When you ask for a birth record, you must also provide your own details. The application form will ask for your full name. You need to state your relationship to the person named on the certificate. For example, are you the registrant, parent, spouse, or child? You might need to state the reason for your request. This could be for a passport, school, or personal records. Include your current mailing address. Provide a phone number where you can be reached. This is helpful if there are questions about your request. You will need to sign the application form. This confirms the information is true. You must also present valid identification. This proves who you are. Make sure all your contact information is clear and easy to read. This ensures they can contact you if needed.

Methods for Requesting Caddo Parish Birth Records

In-Person Requests at Caddo Parish Clerk of Court

You must go to the Caddo Parish Clerk's office to get a birth certificate from them. They do not accept mail requests. Go to 501 Texas Street, Room 103, in Shreveport. Arrive between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Bring a completed application form. You can likely get one there if needed. You must show a valid government-issued photo ID. Examples include a driver's license or passport. Be ready to pay the fee. They accept cash or credit cards only. If the record needs state system access, arriving earlier is better. Requests after 4:00 PM might mean returning the next day. You also need to prove you are eligible to receive the record. Bring proof of relationship if you are not the person on the record.

Mail Requests to Louisiana State Registrar

If you cannot visit Shreveport, use the mail option with the state office. First, get the official application form. Find it on the Louisiana Department of Health website under Vital Records. Fill out the form completely. Include all needed details about the birth. Include your own information too. Make a clear copy of your valid photo ID. Both sides may be needed. Include payment for the fee. Use a check or money order payable to the Bureau of Vital Records and Statistics. Do not send cash. Mail the completed form, ID copy, and payment. Send it to: Bureau of Vital Records and Statistics, P.O. Box 60630, New Orleans, LA 70160. Mail processing takes longer than in-person requests. Allow several weeks for your request to be handled. Check the LDH website for current fees and processing times.

Online Ordering via State-Approved Channels

The State of Louisiana may offer ways to order birth certificates online. These services are typically accessed through the official Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) website. Look for links related to ordering vital records online. Be sure you are using a portal linked directly from the official LDH site (https://ldh.la.gov/vital-records). This ensures you are using an authorized channel. Online orders usually require payment by credit card. They may have additional service fees. Processing times can vary. Follow the instructions on the LDH website carefully. Ensure you meet eligibility and ID requirements. You may need to upload a copy of your ID.

Walk-In Requests at State Registrar Office (New Orleans)

You can also go to the State Registrar's main office in person. Their office is located at 1450 Poydras Street, Suite 400, New Orleans, LA 70112. Walk-in service hours are 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday. They are closed on state holidays. You can request certified copies of birth certificates here. You can also ask for death certificates and Orleans Parish marriage certificates. You can submit documents to start amendments or adoptions too. Bring your completed application form. Have your valid photo ID ready. Be prepared to pay the required fees. Accepted payment methods for walk-ins include exact cash, check, or money order. Check the LDH website before visiting. Ensure you have the latest info on fees and procedures. Note that walk-in service in New Orleans might involve using a kiosk system for ordering.

Costs and Payment Options

Caddo Parish Clerk of Court Fees

When getting records directly from the Caddo Parish Clerk in Shreveport, fees apply. These fees are set by state law. As of recent information:

• A certified copy of a Birth Certificate costs $34.00.

• A package containing one Birth Certificate (long form) and one Birth Card costs $48.00. This pair is sold together under Act 270.

• Payment must be made using cash or credit card only. Checks or money orders are not listed as accepted for in-person vital record purchases at the Caddo Clerk's office. Fees can change, so confirming before you go is wise. Call them or check their website.

State Registrar Fees (Mail-In)

Requesting records by mail from the state office involves different fees. These are based on information from the CDC and LDH sites for mail orders.

• A certified copy of a Birth Certificate (long form) costs $15.00.

• There is an additional state charge of $0.50 added to each mail order. So, the total for one birth certificate by mail is $15.50.

• Payment must be made by check or money order. Make it payable to the "Bureau of Vital Records and Statistics". Do not send cash in the mail. Fees for walk-in service at the New Orleans office might differ slightly. Always check the official LDH website for the most current fee schedule before sending payment or visiting. Fees are subject to change by the state legislature.

Estimated Processing Times

Turnaround for In-Person Requests (Caddo Clerk)

Getting a birth certificate in person at the Caddo Parish Clerk's office is often fast. If the record is easily accessible in the system, you may get it the same day. This is especially true if you arrive well before the 4:00 PM cut-off time. However, some records, especially older ones before 1983, might need state updates. The state computer system's availability can also affect timing. If there are issues, or if you arrive late, you might need to return the next business day. Plan for possible short waits or potential next-day pickup.

Turnaround for Mail Requests (State Registrar)

Requesting a birth certificate by mail from the State Registrar takes more time. Processing does not start until they receive your complete application, ID copy, and payment. Mail delivery time adds to the wait at both ends. General processing can take several weeks. Factors like the volume of requests they receive affect this. The age and complexity of the record can also play a role. If information is missing or unclear, it causes more delays. Do not expect mail order records quickly. If you need a record fast, in-person options are better if possible. Check the LDH website for current estimated processing times for mail orders.

Factors Influencing Wait Times

Several things can change how long you wait. The method you choose matters most. In-person is usually faster than mail. The specific record you need is key. Newer records are often faster to issue. Older records might take more research. Records needing correction or amendment take much longer. The workload at the issuing office impacts time. Busy periods mean longer waits. How complete and accurate your application is matters too. Errors or missing items cause delays. Ensuring you provide clear ID and correct payment helps speed things up. State system availability is also a factor for both offices.

Relevant Louisiana Vital Records Statutes

Louisiana law governs access to birth records. These laws protect privacy while allowing eligible people access. The main laws are in the Louisiana Revised Statutes, Title 40.

Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 40: Public Health and Safety

This title covers many public health topics. Chapter 2 specifically deals with Vital Statistics, including birth records. You can view these laws on the Louisiana State Legislature's website.

• Direct Link: Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 40 (Navigate to Chapter 2): https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/Laws_Toc.aspx?folder=75&level=2

Key Provisions:

• RS 40:34 - Forms and Electronic Registration: This law defines the official forms for birth certificates. It allows for electronic registration systems. It ensures standard forms are used statewide. View Statute: https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?d=98398

• RS 40:41 - Disclosure of Records, Eligibility Rules: This is a key statute. It declares birth records confidential for 100 years. It lists exactly who is eligible to obtain a copy. It outlines rules for inspection and release. It defines Louisiana as a closed record state. View Statute: https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?d=98405 (Note: Findlaw and Justia links also exist but the official legislature site is best).

• RS 40:44 - Compulsory Registration of Births: This law requires that all births be registered. It sets the timeline (within 15 days). It specifies who is responsible for filing the certificate. View Statute: https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?d=98408 

Understanding these laws helps you know your rights. It also explains the requirements for getting a birth certificate.

Handling Special Cases

Correcting or Amending Birth Records

Sometimes, a birth certificate contains errors. It might have a misspelled name or wrong date. You can request corrections or amendments. This process is handled by the Louisiana Bureau of Vital Records and Statistics in New Orleans. It is not done at the Caddo Parish Clerk's office. You typically need to submit an application for amendment. You must provide documents proving the correct information. Examples include school records, census records, or affidavits. The process can be complex. It depends on the type of correction needed. Fees usually apply. Contact the State Registrar's amendment unit directly for forms and specific instructions. You can find information on the LDH website.

• LDH Amendments Information: https://ldh.la.gov/page/vital-records-amendments  

Adoption-Related Records

Birth records related to adoption have special rules. Access to original birth certificates sealed after adoption is restricted. Louisiana has procedures for adoptees or birth parents seeking information. This often involves the Louisiana Adoption Registry. The Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) may also be involved. Getting the original birth certificate usually requires a court order. Contact the Bureau of Vital Records and Statistics or Louisiana DCFS for guidance. They handle these sensitive requests according to specific state laws.

• LDH Adoption Information: https://ldh.la.gov/page/adoption-information 

• Louisiana DCFS Adoption Information: https://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/adoption

Accessing Historical Birth Records

Birth records become public after 100 years. If the birth occurred in Caddo Parish over 100 years ago, the record is likely public. These historical records are not held by the local Clerk or the State Vital Records office. They are transferred to the Louisiana State Archives. You can research these older records through the Archives. They have indexes and may have microfilm copies. Their website offers search tools for historical records.

• Louisiana State Archives - Birth Records Search: https://www.sos.la.gov/HistoricalResources/ResearchHistoricalRecords/LocateHistoricalRecords/Pages/LouisianaBirthRecords.aspx Contact the State Archives in Baton Rouge for details on accessing specific pre-1925 records.

Summary of Contact Information

Caddo Parish Clerk of Court - Vital Records

• Address: 501 Texas Street, Room 103, Shreveport, LA 71101

• Phone: (318) 226-6780 or (318) 226-6642 (Vital Records); (318) 226-6776 (Main Clerk)

• Email: records@caddoclerk.com 

• Operating Hours: Office: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Mon-Fri; Birth Certificate Purchases: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Mon-Fri

• Website: https://www.caddoclerk.com/ (Main); https://www.caddoclerk.com/birth.htm (Vital Records Page)

Louisiana Bureau of Vital Records and Statistics

• Physical Address (Walk-in): 1450 Poydras Street, Suite 400, New Orleans, LA 70112

• Mailing Address: P.O. Box 60630, New Orleans, LA 70160

• Phone: (504) 593-5100

• Walk-in Service Hours: 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM Mon-Fri (excluding state holidays)

• Website: https://ldh.la.gov/vital-records