City of Philadelphia

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Due to extremely hot weather, the City is implementing a Heat Health Emergency. You can find Cooling Centers, pools, spraygrounds, recreation centers, libraries with extended hours, and older adult centers on our interactive map. For help call the heatline at (215) 765-9040.
In effect: noon on Wednesday, July 17 to 11:00 p.m. on Monday, July 22

Birth, marriage & life events

Instructions for getting official certificates or decrees for life events such as birth, death, marriage, or divorce.

Adopt a child

Some children in foster care need adoptive homes. Explore the process of adopting from foster care.

Become a foster parent

If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, we have the information and resources to help you get started.

Get a birth certificate

Description of how to order a copy of a birth certificate (with a raised seal) online, by mail, or in person.

Get a copy of a divorce decree

Instructions for obtaining copies of divorce decrees in Philadelphia.

Get a death certificate

Information on how to order a copy of a death certificate (with a raised seal) online, by mail, or in person.

Get a marriage license

Requirements, fees, and instructions for obtaining a marriage license from the City of Philadelphia.

Request DNA/paternity test information from the Medical Examiner

How to request a DNA/paternity test on a person whose body was handled by the Medical Examiner’s Office (MEO).

Request Medical Examiner records

How to request records or an autopsy report from the Medical Examiner’s Office.

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