Find Your Fastest Route
2 min checkCurrent Processing Snapshot
Last Verified TodayProcessing mail received ~ Dec 15th
Counter open 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Drop-off only (Pickup next day)
This page is about speed and choosing a service
Looking for step-by-step DIY instructions? Those live in our free guides:
Choose Your Best Option
Balance speed, cost, and convenience based on your deadline.
DIY (Standard Mail)
Best for: flexible deadline
- Cheapest (~$20 state fee)
- 4-6 week processing
- Risk minimized with our guide
Expedited Service
Best for: critical deadline
- Same-day / 24h options
- Rejection check included
- Real-time tracking
Document Review
Reduce rejection risk
- Check before you mail
- Notarization verification
- Detailed feedback
Fastest Ways to Apostille in California
Understanding your options is the first step to getting your document processed quickly.
In-Person (Sacramento)
Submit in person at the main Secretary of State office.
- Open M-F 8am-4pm
- Cash, check or money order accepted
In-Person (Los Angeles)
Drop-off window in LA regional office.
- No appointments
- Cash NOT accepted
Mail (Sacramento Only)
Standard mail processing handled by Sacramento HQ.
- Most affordable option
- Use our DIY guide
Federal Route (FBI, etc.)
FBI clearances & federal docs need US Dept. of State apostille.
- Cannot be done at state level
- Different process
Expedited by Document Type
Each document type has specific requirements. Select yours to see the fastest safe route.
Vital Records
In-person submission in Sacramento or LA for same-day service. Courier services handle this daily.
Common Rejection Reason
Wrong certification — must have official county seal, not a photocopy.
What to Prepare
- Certified copy from county registrar (raised seal or colored stamp)
- Original OK if you have only one
- No additional notarization needed
Compare Expedited Services
Top-rated providers servicing California. Verified for active status, fair pricing, and responsive support.
Don't Overpay If You're Not Rushing
If your deadline is flexible (4+ weeks), the DIY mail-in option is significantly cheaper. Our free step-by-step guide helps you avoid common mistakes.
Why Trust This Page
Our information is based on official sources, verified by real experts, and updated regularly.
Official-Source Backed
- Mail processed by Sacramento only
- In-person same-day in Sacramento & LA
- LA: no appointments, cash not accepted
Last Verified
January 17, 2026
Processing dates and office availability verified against official CA SOS announcements weekly.
Reviewed By Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
"Most delays come from document readiness issues — wrong notarization, wrong doc type. If you're on a deadline, the fastest route is the one that avoids rejection."
Amelia Rivera
Senior Compliance Editor
15+ years in document authentication