When a marriage ends in California, the divorce process leaves behind more than just emotional consequences-it creates an official paper trail. One essential document is the California divorce certificate, which serves as proof that the marriage legally ended. Whether you're applying for a new marriage license, dealing with legal matters, or handling immigration paperwork, this document often becomes a necessity.
In this guide, we'll walk you through what a divorce certificate is, how to obtain one in California, and the difference between a divorce certificate and a divorce decree. We'll also answer common questions about related records like birth and marriage certificates to help you navigate California's vital records system.
What Is a California Divorce Certificate?
A California divorce certificate is an official vital record that confirms the legal dissolution of a marriage. It includes basic details such as:
- Names of both parties
- Date of divorce
- County where the divorce was finalized
Divorce Certificate vs Divorce Decree in California
It's important to understand the distinction between a divorce certificate and a divorce decree:
| Document | Issued By | Contains |
|---|---|---|
| Divorce Certificate | California Department of Public Health (CDPH) | Basic information about the divorce (names, date, county) |
| Divorce Decree | Superior Court | Court order with specific terms: property division, spousal support, custody, etc. |
If you need to prove you're divorced, a certificate is usually enough. However, if you're contesting property rights or custody, you'll need the detailed decree.
Where Are Divorce Certificates Maintained?
In California, divorce records are maintained at two levels:
- California Department of Public Health – Vital Records (CDPH-VR) handles certificates for divorces from 1962 to June 1984. They only provide a Certificate of Record, which confirms the divorce but lacks detailed rulings.
- Superior Court of the County where the divorce was filed holds complete records (decrees and certificates). If your divorce occurred after 1984 or before 1962, or you need the full divorce decree, contact the county court directly.
How to Get a California Divorce Certificate
Here are the general steps to obtain a certified copy of your California divorce certificate:
1. Determine the Correct Source
- For divorces between 1962–June 1984: request a Certificate of Record from CDPH-VR.
- For all other years and for full decrees: contact the county's Superior Court Family Law Division.
2. Complete the Request Form
- Use Form VS 113A for CDPH requests.
- For county courts, visit their website or the clerk's office for their unique request process.
3. Notarize Your Application
California requires that all requests for certified divorce certificates be notarized to verify your identity.
4. Submit Your Request
You can send your mail-in request along with:
- Completed and notarized form
- Payment (typically $16-$25)
- A self-addressed stamped envelope
Mail to:
California Department of Public Health
Vital Records – MS 5103
P.O. Box 997410
Sacramento, CA 95899-7410
Processing can take 6–8 weeks or longer, depending on demand.
How to Obtain Divorce Papers from Superior Court
If you're wondering how do I obtain divorce papers, like the full divorce decree, here's the process:
- Find your case number: If you don't remember it, the court clerk can help search by name.
- Visit the Superior Court in the county where the divorce was finalized.
- Request the documents in person or by mail. Some counties allow online requests through their eFiling systems.
You may need to pay a small fee for each page or certified copy.
Can You Get a California Divorce Certificate Online?
Unfortunately, California does not offer direct online downloads of divorce certificates due to privacy and notarization requirements.
However, third-party vendors like VitalChek allow you to order online, and they forward the request to the CDPH or local courts on your behalf. Be sure to:
- Verify the site is official
- Confirm turnaround time and extra fees
Related Records: Birth and Marriage Certificates in California
If you need a marriage certificate or birth certificate, California offers various options through the CDPH and county clerks.
- Get marriage certificate online: Available through county offices or approved vendors like VitalChek.
- Where can you get your birth certificate: If born in California, you can request it via CDPH-VR or the county registrar.
- How to get a birth certificate from another state: Visit the CDC's Where to Write page for links to every state's records office.
These documents, like divorce certificates, are classified as vital records and may require notarized requests.
Common Uses for Divorce Certificates
You may need your divorce certificate in situations such as:
- Applying for a new marriage license
- Immigration petitions or green card renewal
- Social Security or pension benefit updates
- Legal name change
- Insurance beneficiary adjustments
FAQs About California Divorce Certificates
Generally, only the parties involved, their attorneys, or those with a court order can obtain certified copies. Informational copies may be available with limited details.
Mail-in requests through CDPH can take up to 2 months. County courts may be faster, especially with in-person pickup.
You'll need to contact the Superior Court where the divorce was finalized. They can search using your name and issue a new certified copy for a fee.
No. A divorce certificate confirms the legal status change, while the judgment (or decree) outlines the actual terms of the separation.
Final Thoughts: Navigating California's Vital Records System
Obtaining a California divorce certificate can seem overwhelming at first, especially with the split responsibilities between the CDPH and county courts. But once you know the type of document you need, the correct issuing authority, and the required steps, the process becomes manageable.
I think- Use CDPH for basic confirmations from 1962-1984.
- Use the Superior Court for full decrees or records outside that range.
- Always notarize your request and allow time for processing.
Whether you're applying for a new marriage certificate, updating your records, or seeking proof for legal proceedings, a certified California divorce certificate is a vital part of your life records-and now you know exactly how to get it.