Finding Your Time of Birth

How to Find Your Time of Birth in California

If you're looking for the exact time you were born in California, you'll need to obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate. The California Birth Index (like this website) shows birth dates but does not include the time of birth.

Why Time of Birth Isn't in the Birth Index

The California Birth Index is a public index system that includes basic identifying information: names, birth dates, county of birth, and mother's maiden name. The exact time of birth is considered more detailed information that appears only on the official, certified birth certificate.

To find your time of birth, you'll need to order a certified copy of your birth certificate from either the California Department of Public Health or the county where you were born.

Step 1: Search the Birth Index (Free)

Before ordering a certified certificate, you can use CaliforniaBirthIndex.org to verify basic information about your birth record:

— Search by name to find your birth record
— Verify your birth date and county of birth
— Confirm your mother's maiden name
— Make sure the record exists before paying for a certified copy

This free search helps ensure you have the correct information before ordering your certified certificate.

Step 2: Order a Certified Birth Certificate

Once you've verified your birth record exists, order a certified birth certificate that includes your time of birth. You have two options:

Option 1: Order from California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
— Fee: $31 per certified copy (as of January 1, 2026)
— Processing time: Varies (check current processing times)
— Order online via VitalChek or by mail
— Works for any California birth (1905-present)

Option 2: Order from Your County of Birth
— Often faster processing, especially for in-person pickup
— Fees vary by county
— Find your county office: County Directory
— Best for recent births or if you need it quickly

What Information You'll Need

To order your birth certificate with time of birth, you'll need:

— Full name at birth
— Date of birth (you can find this free on CaliforniaBirthIndex.org)
— County of birth
— Mother's maiden name
— Father's name (if listed)
— Your relationship to the person on the certificate
— Valid photo ID
— Payment for certificate fee

Complete Instructions

For detailed step-by-step instructions on ordering a certified California birth certificate, see our complete guide: How to Get a Certified Birth Certificate (California)

Why Do People Need Their Birth Time?

Common reasons people need to know their time of birth include:

— Astrology: Creating a natal chart requires exact birth time
— Numerology: Some systems use birth time for calculations
— Personal records: Completing family history or genealogy research
— Legal purposes: Certain legal documents may require exact time of birth
— Curiosity: Simply wanting to know more details about your birth

Alternative: Ask Family Members

If you just need to know your birth time informally (not for legal purposes), consider asking family members who might remember or have kept records.