Information verified daily — Last verification: November 12, 2025
California issues certified death certificates through the California Department of Public Health – Vital Records (CDPH-VR) and county Recorder/Clerk offices. Authorized copies (used for identity/legal matters) require a notarized Sworn Statement (VS 20). Informational copies are not valid to establish identity. Typical state processing takes several weeks and begins when CDPH receives your request; many counties are faster in person. The statewide fee is generally $24 per certified copy (verify current schedule). Online ordering is available through authorized partners such as VitalChek (service fees apply). Records are usually available around two weeks after the event. For corrections, use VS 24. If you need an apostille for international use, see the California Secretary of State instructions.
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A certified California death certificate is an official copy of a death record maintained by CDPH-VR and county offices. California issues Authorized Certified Copies (acceptable for legal identity uses) and Informational Certified Copies (not valid to establish identity).
See CDPH guidance: Obtaining Certified Copies of Death Records.
Eligible requesters for an Authorized Copy typically include the registrant's parent/child/grandparent/grandchild/sibling/spouse or domestic partner, a legal representative, or a party with a court order.
If you answered "no" to all, you may not be eligible for an Authorized copy. You can request an Informational Copy instead.
| Route | Best for | Typical timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CDPH-VR | Out-of-county or mail-in | Commonly several weeks | Verify current fee & processing time; starts when CDPH receives your request. |
| County office | Faster pickup/in-person | Often sooner than CDPH | Fees/requirements vary by county (e.g., LA County lists $24). |
| VitalChek | Online convenience | Varies by agency | Service fee; follow ID and sworn statement rules. |
| County | How to order | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles County | Online/In-person/Mail | $24 per copy; verify ID & notarization needs (link) |
| Orange County | OC Health/Recorder | Amend via VS 24; verify hours/fees |
| San Diego County | Vital Records & Statistics | In-person often faster; verify hours & payment |
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Generate My Apostille StepsReviewed by: Amelia Rivera, Document Processing Specialist
Methodology: Summary of public guidance from CDPH and California Secretary of State (links above).