Order official Virginia Divorce Records and Vital Records online

Divorce records are crucial documents for administrative, legal, and personal reasons. They officially confirm the dissolution of a marriage and are often required for activities such as changing one’s name, settling legal issues related to property or assets, and remarrying. Obtaining a Virginia divorce certificate is a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps and guidelines set by the Virginia Department of Health's Division of Vital Records.

Who Can Request Divorce Records?

In Virginia, divorce records are considered confidential. Therefore, they can only be requested by the individuals listed on the divorce certificate, their immediate family members, or their legal representatives. Proof of relationship or legal representation must usually accompany the request.

What Documents Are Required?

To obtain a Virginia divorce certificate, you need to provide specific documents:

• • Valid Government-Issued Photo ID: This could be a driver's license, state ID, or passport.
• • Completed Application Form: The official application form must be filled out accurately and completely.
• • Proof of Relationship or Legal Representation: If you are not one of the individuals named in the record, you need to provide evidence of your relationship or authority to request the certificate.

How to Obtain Virginia Divorce Records

By Mail

Sending a request by mail involves several steps:

• • Complete the Divorce Certificate Application Form.
• • Include a copy of your valid photo ID and proof of relationship or legal representation (if applicable).
• • Mail the completed form, ID copy, proof of relationship, and fee to the Division of Vital Records.

In Person

You can visit the Division of Vital Records in person to request a Virginia divorce certificate:

• • Visit the office with your completed application form, valid photo ID, and proof of relationship or legal representation, if needed.
• • Pay the required fee at the office.

Online

Online requests can be made through approved services such as VitalChek:

• • Access the online service to complete the application process.
• • Upload a digital copy of your valid photo ID and proof of relationship or legal representation, if required.
• • Pay the processing fee online.

How Much Do Divorce Records Cost?

The cost for obtaining a Virginia divorce certificate is normally $12 per copy. There may be additional fees for expedited service or for obtaining extra copies. Online services through providers like VitalChek may also involve processing fees.

Processing Time

Processing times can vary based on the method of request:

• • By Mail: Typically 2 to 4 weeks.
• • In Person: Same day to a few days, depending on office workload.
• • Online: Generally faster; expedited options may be available.

Following these guidelines carefully will help ensure a smooth and efficient process when you need to obtain a Virginia divorce certificate. Should you have any specific questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to the Virginia Department of Health's Division of Vital Records.

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.