Order official Ohio Divorce Records and Vital Records online

Divorce records are crucial documents that serve as official proof of a marriage's legal dissolution. They are often required for various legal and administrative purposes, such as changing one's name, settling financial matters, or remarrying. Understanding how to obtain these records in Ohio ensures that you can access this essential information when needed.

Who Can Request Divorce Records?

In Ohio, divorce records are generally public records, meaning most individuals can request them. However, some details within the divorce record might be restricted to protect privacy. Typically, those eligible to request divorce records include:

• • Parties named in the divorce;
• • Immediate family members;
• • Legal representatives with appropriate authorization;
• • Other interested parties with a valid reason, subject to approval.

What Documents Are Required?

To request an Ohio divorce certificate, you must provide certain documents to verify your identity and authorization. The required documents typically include:

• • A completed Application for Certified Copies of Divorce Records (PDF);
• • A valid government-issued photo ID;
• • Payment for the processing fee (more on this in the cost section);
• • Any supporting documents if you are a legal representative or not the primary registrant.

How to Obtain Ohio Divorce Records

There are several ways to obtain divorce records in Ohio:

By Mail

To request divorce records by mail, send your completed application form, a copy of your ID, and payment to the Ohio Department of Health's Vital Statistics office.

In Person

You can visit the local Health Department or the county Clerk's office where the divorce was finalized. Provide your ID and complete the application form on-site.

Online

The Ohio Department of Health partners with VitalChek for online orders. This service offers a convenient way to request divorce records from the comfort of your home. Ensure all required documents are uploaded correctly to avoid processing delays.

For additional information, please visit the Ohio Department of Health website.

How Much Do Divorce Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining a certified copy of a divorce record in Ohio is generally $25.00 per copy. Expedited services and additional copies may incur extra fees. When ordering through VitalChek, additional service fees may apply.

Processing Time

Processing times can vary based on the method used to obtain the records:

• • By Mail: Typically takes 4-6 weeks;
• • In Person: Generally processed the same day;
• • Online: Processing time is usually shorter but depends on shipping options selected; expedited options may be available.

For the most current processing times, refer to the Ohio Department of Health's website.

By following these guidelines carefully, you can ensure a smooth application process for obtaining your Ohio divorce certificate. If you need further assistance or have specific questions, don't hesitate to contact the Ohio Department of Health directly for support.

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.