Birth Certificates
RRH Birth Certificate Process
In a few easy steps, RRH will work with you to ensure your baby's birth certificate is accurately completed and submitted.
1) Schedule Appointment
After your baby is born, a Ridgecrest Regional Hospital HIM (Health Information
Management) team member will contact you to schedule an appointment.
If you haven't received a call please contact the HIM department at
760-499-3669.
2) Birth Certificate Worksheet
During your appointment, you will fill out a Birth Certificate Worksheet.
This worksheet is required by the county to receive your baby’s
birth certificate from the State of California.
This appointment will be conducted in person.
3) Ordering Birth Certificate:
Once the birth certificate worksheet is filed, contact the
Kern County Department of Public Health to order the birth certificate and to make any changes. They will require
the Birth Certificate Request Form listed below along with the Complimentary
Birth Certificate you received from Ridgecrest Regional Hospital.
- Download: Birth Certificate Request Form
Note: The complimentary birth certificate you receive from Ridgecrest Regional Hospital is not a legal document. It is not accepted in place of the Certified Copy from Kern County.
Helpful Links
- Visit Kern County Department of Public Health to order a birth certificate if your child was born in Kern County.
- Visit Vital Records to order a birth certificate if your child was not born in Kern County.
If your baby was not born at Ridgecrest Regional Hospital, you will need to contact the hospital or birthing center where your baby was born.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the baby’s Social Security Card arrive?
The baby’s Social Security Card should arrive at your home address within 8 to 12 weeks.
Who can sign POP papers?
Only an unmarried mother and the real father can sign POP papers. A mother who is still married to someone else cannot sign POP papers, and the baby’s father is not allowed to sign either. California law assumes that the mother’s husband is the baby’s father. For more information on POP, click on this link.
What last name can the baby have on the Birth Certificate?
The baby can have any last name the mother wishes. She cannot add the father’s name unless he signs POP papers claiming that he is the father and that he will support the baby.
How can I add the father’s name to the birth certificate?
Contact the Family Support Division Kern County to add the father’s name at (800) 980-2021 or (661) 868-2827.
