Death certificates
How long does a death certificate take?
Short answer
In California, registration is usually complete within 8–15 days if filed properly. Certified copies can typically be ordered within a few days after registration. Rush options exist at some county offices.
What this usually means
In California, registration is usually complete within 8–15 days if filed properly. Certified copies can typically be ordered within a few days after registration. Rush options exist at some county offices.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.