California Divorce Certificate
A California Divorce Certificate (also called a divorce decree) is the official court or government record confirming the legal dissolution of a marriage in the state. It is required for remarriage, name restoration, financial planning, immigration proceedings, and other legal matters.
One document, dozens of doors it opens
require a copy
A California divorce certificate is required for many important life events and transactions.
What you need to provide
To request a California divorce certificate, have the following information ready.
The official source for California divorce records
A certified California divorce record is the official government record confirming the legal dissolution of a marriage in California. Vital records aren't handled the same way everywhere in California — many counties collect and store this information differently, so the exact details needed to obtain a certified copy can vary depending on where the record was originally filed.
Based on the questions you answer, the form you file will route you to the correct county office for California divorce record.
Official issuing authorities
- California Department of Public Health – Vital Records (CDPH-VR)
- Clerk of the Superior Court in the county where the divorce was granted
How VitalCopy Helps
Complete your form
Fill out the online form. (takes about 5 minutes)
Preparation
Your divorce certificate is reviewed & prepared for shipment.
Certificate delivered
Your certified divorce certificate is delivered directly to your door.
Need a different California vital record?
VitalCopy handles all four vital record types for California.
Birth Certificate
- Applying for a U.S. passport or passport card
- Enrolling children in school
- Obtaining a driver's license or state ID
Death Certificate
- Filing a life insurance claim
- Probate and estate administration
- Transferring property titles and real estate deeds
Marriage Certificate
- Changing your name on a driver's license or passport
- Updating your Social Security record after marriage
- Adding a spouse to health insurance and benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ordering a California Divorce Certificate online.
What is the difference between a Divorce Certificate and a divorce decree in California?
A California Divorce Certificate is a short-form record issued by the state vital records office, confirming the basic facts of the divorce (parties' names, date, county). A divorce decree is the full court order from the judge, detailing custody, property division, and support arrangements. The right document depends on what the requesting agency requires — VitalCopy can obtain either.
How long does it take to get a California Divorce Certificate?
Processing through the California vital records office typically takes 4–8 weeks for standard requests. Court-issued divorce decrees obtained through the county clerk of court may be available somewhat faster. Expedited service can reduce these timelines considerably for urgent situations.
Can I get a California divorce record if I don't know the case number?
California vital records can typically locate a divorce record using the names of both parties and the approximate date and county where the divorce was finalized. A case number simply speeds up the search. If you don't have it, we can still process your request.
Who can request a California Divorce Certificate?
Either party named in the divorce can request a copy. Legal representatives, certain immediate family members, and others with a documented legal interest may also be eligible depending on California access rules. As with all vital records, California restricts access to protect personal information.
I need my California divorce record urgently for a remarriage — what are my options?
If you need a California Divorce Certificate quickly for a pending marriage license application, expedited processing is your best path. Mention your timeline when placing your order through VitalCopy — we prioritize time-sensitive requests and will advise on the fastest available option for your specific situation.
Can I get a copy of a California divorce that was finalized decades ago?
California maintains historical divorce records and copies of older records can be requested through the standard process. The format and availability of older records may vary depending on when the divorce was finalized and how those records have been archived by the state and county courts.