Order official South Carolina Divorce Records and Vital Records online

Divorce records, like birth and death certificates, serve as important legal documents. These records can be crucial for various purposes, such as genealogical research, personal identification, and legal proceedings like remarriage or property settlements. Understanding how to get a "South Carolina divorce certificate" is essential for ensuring that these documents are available when needed.

Who Can Request Divorce Records?

In South Carolina, divorce records are considered public records; however, they are restricted to the individuals involved in the divorce, their immediate family members, or their legal representatives. Other individuals may need to provide a legitimate reason for their request.

What Documents Are Required?

When applying for a South Carolina divorce certificate, certain documents will be needed to verify the identity of the requester and to process the application. The required documents often include:

• • A valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport);
• • A completed application form.

You can download the application form from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) website. Carefully follow the instructions provided to fill out the form.

How to Obtain South Carolina Divorce Records

There are several ways to obtain South Carolina divorce records:

By Mail

To obtain divorce records by mail, send a completed application form along with the required fee and a copy of your government-issued photo ID to:

SC DHEC - Vital Records
2600 Bull Street
Columbia, SC 29201

Ensure that all information is accurate to avoid any delays in processing.

In Person

You can also visit the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control office to apply in person. Make sure to bring the completed application form and the required identification documents.

Online

For faster service, you can request divorce records online through the VitalChek service. This option allows for easy application submission and payment online.

How Much Do Divorce Records Cost?

The cost for a South Carolina divorce certificate varies:

• • Standard service: $12 for the first copy;
• • Additional copies: $3 each;
• • Expedited service: Additional fees apply.

Fees are subject to change, so it is advisable to check the official DHEC website for the most current fee schedule.

Processing Time

Processing times may vary depending on the method used:

• • Mail requests: Processing time may take several weeks;
• • In-person requests: Usually processed the same day;
• • Online requests: Typically processed within 5-7 business days, with expedited options available for faster service.

Obtaining a South Carolina divorce certificate can be straightforward when following these steps. Ensuring the correct documents and fees are included will aid in a smooth application process. For any specific questions or further assistance, don't hesitate to contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control 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.