Divorce Decree vs. Divorce Certificate: Know the Difference

You may need proof of a divorce to update records, remarry, or handle legal matters.

But not all divorce documents are the same.

Many people need full court details. Others just need a simple certificate.

This guide explains the difference and shows how to get official vital records online with less stress.

What is a divorce decree vs. a divorce certificate?

Divorce Decree:

This is the full court order that finalizes a divorce.

The decree includes everything:

• Custody decisions
• Alimony
• Property division
• other settlement terms

The court that handles divorce issues is usually a county family court, which issues the decree.

Divorce Certificate:

This is a simpler legal document.

It typically lists the following:

• Names of both parties
• The date of divorce
• The location

A state's vital records office may issue a simple divorce certificate or verification in some states. 

However, in other states, you must always contact the court for any divorce records.

Start by reviewing your state's requirements.

Who typically needs a divorce decree or certificate?

People often use divorce certificates for:

• Remarrying
• Updating Social Security records
• Legal name changes
• Proving marital status

People often need divorce decrees for:

• Enforcing custody or support terms (including things like child support)
• Legal disputes
• Immigration or estate planning
• When you need full details of the divorce judgment

How do you request a divorce record?

Step 1: Contact the right office

For a divorce decree, contact the family court or clerk's office in the county where the divorce happened.

Divorce certificates are available from your state’s vital records office (varies by state) or through secure online services like StateVitalRecords.org.

Step 2: Get your information ready

Before applying, gather the following:

• Full legal names of both individuals
• Approximate divorce date
• County or state where it took place
• Case or docket number (optional but helpful)

Step 3: Apply online or by mail

StateVitalRecords.org handles official requests in different states. They also offer a mailing option where you would mail in the completed application yourself.

Some states allow agencies like StateVitalRecords.org to help request divorce certificates.

Only the people in the divorce, their lawyers, or close family members with legal papers can get the records.

Here's how StateVitalRecords.org works:

• Go to StateVitalRecords.org to get your vital records online
• Select a state and begin your online order
• Provide both names, the date of the divorce (or an estimate), and the location, such as the city, county, or state. See the official sample application from NY State Divorce Certificate.
• Upload a scan of your government-issued photo ID
• Complete a sworn statement, notarized online via webcam with NotaryLive (if required)
• Pay the fees
• We will send your application for you to the state (after we send it out, it's in the jurisdiction's hands)
• The jurisdiction will mail the certified copy of your divorce certificate to your home.

Step 4: Understand access rules:

Only the people in the divorce, their lawyers, or close family members with legal papers can get the records. Public access is rare and depends on state law.

In California and New York, only the people involved in the divorce or those with legal permission can get the records.

Step 5: Pay fees and wait

• Expect to pay fees for certified copies
• Expedited services are available for some states on StateVitalRecords.org.
• Processing times vary widely by state and whether you order online or by mail. It can take from a few weeks to several months.

What about older or out-of-state divorce records?

If the divorce happened decades ago or in a different state:

• Start with the state's Department of Health
• Use the CDC's vital records tool to find the correct office
• Some states offer lower fees for legal aid or low-income applicants
• A lawyer can help when the records are part of a legal or immigration case.

Why use SVR for your divorce record request?

If you need a divorce record for legal reasons, remarriage, or family documentation, SVR simplifies the process.

At State Vital Records (SVR), we help you request vital records online quickly and securely. 

Avoid delays and unclear instructions with an optimized process.

SVR makes it easy by offering:

• Step-by-step instructions for your specific state
• Secure, fast processing and reliable delivery
• We make sure your application goes to the right office on time.

If you're dealing with child support enforcement, immigration paperwork, or family estate issues as well, we've got your back.

Start your request now to apply for vital records online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone request a divorce decree?

No. Usually, only the divorced parties and sometimes their attorneys can access decrees. Other family members may need a court order.

How to find my parents' divorce decree or divorce certificate?

You can request them if you're their child and can provide proof, like your birth certificate and ID. Access to full decrees may still be limited, depending on the state.