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How to Obtain a Death Certificate in California
Quick Answer:
How do you get a death certificate in California? County vital records offices and the California Department of Public Health issue death certificates in California. You can order a certified copy online, by mail, or in person. Each certified copy costs $24. Online orders process faster than mail requests.
A California death certificate is an official government document recording the facts of a person's death. You need it to settle an estate, claim life insurance, and handle related legal matters. StateVitalRecords.org offers a straightforward way to start the process.
What Are the Ways to Order a California Death Certificate?
| Method | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Fastest | Those who need the certificate quickly |
| Slowest | Those comfortable with paper forms | |
| In Person | Moderate | Those who prefer face-to-face service |
Start your request at StateVitalRecords.org's California vital records order page. Select the record type, complete the application, and pay by credit card. A $14 transaction fee may apply in addition to the $24 per-copy fee.
How Do You Order by Mail or In Person?
To order by mail, complete the application and sign a sworn statement.
You must notarize that statement before mailing it. Search for a “notary near me” at a local bank, or notarize online through a service like NotaryLive.com. Mail the notarized forms with a check or money order to your county vital records office.
To order in person, visit your county vital records office.
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, your completed application, and payment. The California Department of Public Health maintains a directory of county registrars and recorders to help you find the right office.
Who Can Request a Certified Copy?
The California Department of Public Health limits certified copies to authorized parties, including:
- A spouse, parent, child, or sibling of the deceased
- A legal representative or attorney
- A person with a documented legal right or need
- Anyone with a court order
If you do not qualify, you may request an informational copy. It contains the same data but cannot be used to establish identity or meet legal requirements.
Request a California Death Certificate
Each copy costs $24, and online ordering is the fastest option. Start your request at StateVitalRecords.org's California vital records order page.
This post was written by the StateVitalRecords.org editorial team.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a California death certificate cost?
- Each certified copy costs $24. A $14 transaction fee may apply for online orders.
- How long does it take?
- Processing times vary by county. Online orders process faster than mail. Contact your county office for current estimates.
- Can anyone request a death certificate in California?
- No. Certified copies go to authorized individuals only. Others may request an informational copy.
- What is the difference between a certified copy and an informational copy?
- A certified copy is legally valid for settling estates and claiming insurance. An informational copy has the same data but cannot be used for official purposes.
- Do I need to notarize my application to order by mail?
- Yes. You must sign and notarize a sworn statement before submission. Use a notary near me, a mobile notary, or an online notary service.