Order official California Death Records and Vital Records online

Death records serve as essential documents for various purposes, including genealogical research, legal matters, and confirming information related to the deceased. These records contain valuable data such as cause of death, date and place of death, and other relevant details that can be crucial for family members and legal representatives.

Who Can Request Death Records?

California death certificates are accessible to certain individuals, including:

• • Immediate family members such as parents, children, spouses, and siblings;
• • Legal representatives of the deceased;
• • Genealogists if the death record is over 50 years old.

Others must demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record to qualify for access.

What Documents Are Required?

To request death records, applicants must provide the following:

• • A completed application form available from the California Department of Public Health's official website;
• • A notarized sworn statement, if necessary;
• • Valid identification, such as a driver's license or other government-issued ID.

Detailed instructions and downloadable forms can be found on the official website.

How to Obtain California Death Records

By Mail

Send the completed application form, notarized statement (if required), and payment to the California Department of Public Health. Ensure all details are accurate to prevent processing delays.

In Person

Visit the California Department of Public Health's office or the county recorder's office. Bring all necessary documents and identification for faster service.

Online

For convenience, request death records through VitalChek. This service allows for expedited processing and delivery.

How Much Do Death Records Cost?

The standard fee for a California death certificate is $24. Additional fees may apply for expedited services or extra copies. Check the official website for the most current fee schedule and payment options.

Processing Time

Processing times may vary based on the method of application:

• • Mail: 3-4 weeks;
• • In Person: Immediate in most cases;
• • Online: 5-7 business days with expedited options available.

For the latest updates on processing times, visiting the California Department of Public Health's official website is recommended.

Following these guidelines carefully ensures a smooth process when obtaining death records. For any specific questions or additional assistance, do not hesitate to contact the California Department of Public Health directly.

If the event was recorded locally or if you need immediate access to detailed records, it is preferable to contact your county vital records office directly. Find the contact details of your local county vital records office here.