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 (~$10 state fee)
- 5-7 day 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 Florida. Verified for active status, fair pricing, and responsive support.
Don't Overpay If You're Not Rushing
If your deadline is flexible (1-2 weeks), the DIY mail-in option is significantly cheaper. Florida has one of the lowest state fees at $10.
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
"Florida's $10 fee is one of the best deals in the country, but remember — they're strict about original signatures. A photocopy will get rejected every time."
Amelia Rivera
Senior Compliance Editor
15+ years in document authentication