If you need to access Washington divorce records, you’re not alone. People often need divorce documents for legal reasons, remarriage, immigration, or personal record-keeping. In Washington State, divorce records are public unless sealed by the court. But knowing where to find them and how to request them can be confusing if you don’t know the process.
What Are Washington Divorce Records?
In Washington State, divorce records generally fall into two categories:
1. Divorce Certificate
A divorce certificate is a one-page official document from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). It lists the names of the former spouses, the date of the divorce, and the county where it was finalized. It does not include the terms of the divorce (like custody arrangements or property division).
Who needs it?A divorce certificate is typically used for:
- Changing your name back to your maiden name
- Showing proof of divorce for legal paperwork
- Getting remarried
2. Divorce Decree
A divorce decree is the official, detailed court document issued by the Superior Court at the end of a divorce case. Unlike a simple divorce certificate, the decree outlines all the legal terms of the divorce in full. It includes important information about how the couple’s property and assets will be divided, whether one spouse will pay spousal support (alimony), and how child custody and child support will be handled if there are children involved. The divorce decree serves as the final judgment, making the divorce legally binding and enforceable.
Who needs it?
A divorce decree is usually needed for:
- Enforcing or modifying child support or spousal support
- Clarifying property division
- Resolving post-divorce disputes
Where Are Washington Divorce Records Kept?
Washington divorce records are managed by two main sources:
- Washington State Department of Health (DOH):For divorce certificates from 1968 to the present.
- County Superior Court Clerk's Office:For divorce decrees or for divorces finalized before 1968.
How to Get a Divorce Certificate in Washington
If you need a Washington divorce certificate, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is the official source. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you order one:
Step 1: Prepare Your Information
Before you start, gather the following details:
- Full names of both spouses (first and last names)
- Approximate date of the divorce (month and year)
- County where the divorce was finalized
Step 2: Choose How You Want to Order
You can order your Washington divorce records in several ways:
- Online:Use VitalChek, the authorized online vendor.
- By Phone:Call 1-866-687-1464, available 24/7.
- By Mail:Download the application form from the Washington DOH website, fill it out, and mail it with your payment to:Washington State Department of Health – Center for Health StatisticsPO Box 9709Olympia, WA 98507-9709
- In Person:Visit the DOH office in Tumwater, WA if you prefer face-to-face service.
Step 3: Pay the Fee
- $25 per copy (non-refundable)
- Additional fees may apply for expedited processing or shipping.
4. Wait for Processing
Processing times vary depending on how you order:
- Online or Phone Orders: 3-7 business days (plus shipping time)
- Mail Orders: 6-8 weeks
- In-Person Orders: Usually faster, but check for appointment requirements.
5. Special Note for Recent Divorces
If your divorce happened within the past few months, the Department of Health may not have the record yet. For faster access, contact the county superior court clerk where your divorce was finalized.
How to Get a Divorce Decree in Washington
A divorce decree is the official court order that finalizes your divorce in Washington. It’s different from a divorce certificate. While a divorce certificate is a simple document stating the date of divorce and the parties involved, the divorce decree contains the complete terms of the divorce, including:
- Division of property and assets
- Spousal support (alimony) details
- Child custody and parenting plans
- Child support agreements
- Any additional orders made by the court
If you need a copy of your divorce decree in Washington, here’s how you can get it:
1. Contact the County Superior Court Clerk’s Office
A divorce decree is only available from the Superior Court Clerk in the county where your divorce was finalized. Each county keeps its own records, so you must go back to the specific court that handled your case.
2. Provide Required Information
When you contact the clerk’s office, you’ll need to give them some basic details to locate your file:
- Full names of both parties involved in the divorce
- The date of divorce (or approximate date)
- If possible, the case number—this will make the search faster, but it’s not mandatory if you know the names and date.
3. Pay the Copy Fee
Fees for a certified copy of a divorce decree vary by county but typically range from $10 to $30 per copy. Some courts may also charge additional fees for online orders, credit card processing, or mailing.
4. Check for Online Access
Many counties in Washington now offer online services to make ordering easier:
- King County has an online document portal where you can search for and order divorce documents remotely.
- Other counties may require in-person visits, mail-in requests, or phone calls. Always check the specific county’s Superior Court Clerk website or call the office for instructions.
5. In-Person Requests
If online access isn’t available, you can visit the Superior Court Clerk’s Office in person. Bring your ID, case information, and payment. Some counties may allow you to request copies while you wait.
Why You Might Need a Divorce Decree
You may need a certified copy of your divorce decree for:
- Changing your name back to your previous name
- Refinancing or selling property
- Closing joint accounts or updating estate plans
- Enforcing child support, custody, or alimony orders
- Providing legal proof of divorce for remarriage
If you’re unsure where your divorce was finalized, start by checking the county where you lived at the time of the divorce.
Are Washington Divorce Records Public?
Yes, Washington divorce records are public unless a judge has sealed the case. This means anyone can request a divorce certificate or look up case information through the courts.
However, certain confidential documents, like financial declarations or child custody evaluations, are usually sealed and not available to the public.
What About Divorce Records Before 1968?
If your divorce occurred before January 1, 1968, you must contact the Superior Court Clerk’s Office in the county where the divorce was finalized. The Department of Health does not have these older records.
Can You Request a Single Status Letter?
Yes. If you need proof that you're not currently married in Washington (for example, to get remarried abroad), you can request a Single Status Letter from the Washington State Department of Health. This document confirms that no marriage is on file after your last divorce.