How to Get a Death Certificate in California: 5 Simple Steps

In the days after losing a loved one, paperwork is the last thing you want to face. Still, a death certificate becomes one of the most important documents your family will need.

If you are wondering how to get a death certificate in California, this guide covers who qualifies, the cost and the fastest way to order. After can help you through every step.

Do you have questions about ordering a death certificate after a loss? You can call us 24/7 at 1-844-717-5170.

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Understanding California Death Certificates

A California death certificate is the official legal record that confirms someone passed away in the state. The California Department of Public Health issues it through its Vital Records office, which has kept death records since July 1905.

Families rely on certified copies for many practical matters. You will likely need one to close bank accounts, claim benefits, file an insurance claim and settle an estate. Many institutions keep the copy you send, so plan for several.

The state office issues records for any death in California. A county office can only issue records for deaths that happened within that county.

Authorized vs Informational Copies in California

California issues two kinds of certified copies. The type you need depends on how you will use it. Sorting this out first prevents a rejected application later.

An authorized certified copy carries full legal weight. You need one to settle an estate, claim insurance, transfer property or notify Social Security. Only authorized people can request it.

An informational certified copy holds the same details but cannot establish identity. It shows the legend "INFORMATIONAL, NOT A VALID DOCUMENT TO ESTABLISH IDENTITY" across the front. Anyone can order one, which makes it useful for genealogy or personal records.

Who Can Request a Death Certificate in California?

Only an authorized applicant can request a full California death certificate. State law restricts these records to protect family privacy. You will need to show how you connect to the person named on the record.

Authorized applicants include:

• The person named on the record, or their parent or legal guardian
• A child, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, spouse or domestic partner of that person
• An attorney or legal representative acting for the estate
• Law enforcement or a government agency conducting official business
• A funeral home ordering certified copies on behalf of the family

If you do not qualify, you can still request an informational copy without proving a relationship.

How to Get a Death Certificate in California: Step by Step

You can complete the request in five clear steps, whether you order through a county office, the state or an approved online vendor.

Step 1: Decide Which Type of Copy You Need

Start by choosing between an authorized copy and an informational copy. Most families settling an estate need the authorized version. The wrong choice here is the most common reason an order gets sent back.

Step 2: Confirm You Qualify and Gather Documents

Next, confirm you are an authorized applicant and collect what you need. Most orders ask for a valid government photo ID plus basic facts about your loved one. Having them ready before you apply saves a return trip or a follow-up letter. 

You will usually need:

• Your photo ID, such as a California driver license, state ID or passport
• Your loved one's full name plus the date and county of death
• Your relationship to the person named on the record

Step 3: Choose Where and How to Order

California gives you three routes. The best one depends on how fast you need the record. 

A county office in the county of death is often quickest. Many counties finish an in-person request the same day.

The state office handles requests for any California death but runs more slowly. 

You can also order online through VitalChek, the approved third-party vendor. County orders through VitalChek add a $12.95 processing fee on top of the copy fee.

Step 4: Complete the Sworn Statement and Pay the Fee

For an authorized copy, you must complete a sworn statement declaring under penalty of perjury that you qualify. Mail requests must have this statement notarized.

Each certified copy costs $26 as of January 1, 2026, whether authorized or informational. The same fee applies to every copy in your order.

Step 5: Submit Your Request and Track It

Once your documents and payment are ready, submit your request through your chosen method. Online applicants pay by card. Mail applicants send Form VS 112 with a check or money order payable to CDPH Vital Records, and never cash.

After you submit, you can check current timeframes on the state website before you follow up.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Death Certificate?

How long it takes depends mostly on how you order. Processing time does not include shipping. 

Add delivery time on top of these current ranges:

• By mail through the state: The state office averages about 5 to 7 weeks, not counting delivery
• In person at a county office: A walk-in request can sometimes be finished the same day
• Online through VitalChek: Usually a few weeks, depending on the shipping option you choose

Processing times shift with demand. Records also become available about two weeks after the date of death, so a very recent death may not be ready yet.

How After Helps Families Get a California Death Certificate

After can take this task off your plate as part of our cremation services. When a family chooses After, a Care Specialist orders death certificates on the family's behalf. They also guide families through permits, authorizations and next steps.

Every direct cremation package comes with transparent, upfront pricing and 24/7 phone support, so families always know what to expect.

Families who need flexible payment options can use Lilypay to spread payments across 3 or 6 months for a flat fee. Lilypay also enables crowdfunding through Community Gardens to help cover cremation costs.

Getting a California Death Certificate Without the Stress

Knowing how to get a death certificate in California makes a hard time a little more manageable. The whole process comes down to a few clear steps once you understand which copy you need and who qualifies.

Do you have questions about death records or cremation arrangements in California? The team at After is ready to help with transparency, care and zero pressure. You can call us 24/7 at 1-844-717-5170.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does a Death Certificate Cost in California?

A death certificate in California costs $26 for each certified copy as of 2026. The same fee applies to authorized and informational copies. Every copy in the same order costs $26, because California does not offer a bulk discount.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Death Certificate in California?

How long it takes depends on how you order. State mail orders average about 5 to 7 weeks, not counting delivery. A county office can often finish an in-person request the same day, which makes it the fastest route.

Who Can Request a Death Certificate in California?

Only an authorized person can request a full California death certificate. That group includes immediate family, an attorney for the estate, a legal guardian or a government agency. Anyone else can still order an informational copy that cannot establish identity.

What Is the Difference Between an Authorized and Informational Copy?

An authorized copy can establish identity and settle legal matters like estates and insurance. An informational copy holds the same details but is marked as not valid to establish identity. Most families settling affairs need the authorized version.

How Many Death Certificates Should I Order?

Many families order several certified copies at once. Banks, insurers and government agencies often want an original, so a few extra copies up front can save time later. Each additional copy costs $26 in the same order.

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