How to obtain a death certificate in California

After a loved one passes away, obtaining a death certificate is one of the most important steps that needs to be taken. This document is crucial for arranging the funeral, carrying out organ donation, executing the will, and other such actions.

The process of obtaining a death certificate varies from state to state and even from county to county. To make the process easier, we have compiled the information you need to obtain a death certificate based on your location.

If your loved one passed away in California, you may order their death certificate in person, through mail, or online. Details for obtaining a death certificate in these different ways are below:

1. Online: You may order a death certificate of the deceased through VitalChek, an independent third-party website. In addition to a $21 fee to obtain a California death certificate, VitalChek also charges its own fees for its services.

2. In Person: You may request a death certificate of the deceased by visiting the County Recorder’s Office in the county where the event took place. Click here to find the desired county office.

3. By Mail: To request a death certificate by mail, first download and fill out this application form. If you are ordering an authorized copy, you must have the sworn statement inside the form notarized. You may then mail the application along with a $21 check or money order payable to CDPH Vital Records to the following address:

   California Department of Public Health

   Vital Records – MS 5103

   PO Box 997410

   Sacramento, CA 95899-7410

   Or if you are sending it through a courier service that requires physical delivery:

   California Department of Public Health

   Vital Records – MS 5103

   1501 Capitol Avenue

   Sacramento, CA 95814