Adoption Records Search

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

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

Identifying Information

Washington State does not have a central registry, from which a search for a biological parent or child can be accessed. 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:

Non-Identifying Information

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

DCYF Public Records 

(360) 407-5520

Fax (360) 407-5571

dcyf.publicdisclosure@dcyf.wa.gov

PO Box 40992
Olympia, WA 98504-0992

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.