An Alabama divorce certificate serves as official evidence that a legal marriage dissolution has occurred within the state. This document is distinct from a divorce decree, which contains specific details of the court’s final judgment, including asset division, alimony arrangements, and child custody orders. A divorce certificate, by contrast, is a vital record confirming the date and location of the divorce, as well as the names of the individuals involved.
The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), through its Center for Health Statistics, is responsible for maintaining divorce records from January 1950 to the present. For divorces finalized before 1950, certified copies may be obtained from the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the county where the decree was issued.
How to Obtain a Certified Copy of an Alabama Divorce Certificate?
Individuals seeking a certified copy of an Alabama divorce certificate may do so through several authorized methods. Each option is designed to accommodate different needs based on location, urgency, and preferred processing method.
Requesting in Person
Certified copies of divorce certificates are available at any county health department in Alabama. In-person requests are typically fulfilled on the same day, provided the required documentation and payment are presented at the time of application. This method is recommended for those who need immediate access to their records.
Requesting by Mail
To request a divorce certificate by mail, applicants must complete the appropriate application form, include a copy of a valid government-issued photo ID, and remit payment by check or money order payable to the State Board of Health. The completed request should be mailed to:
Alabama Vital RecordsCenter for Health StatisticsP.O. Box 5625Montgomery, AL 36103-5625
The fee for the first certified copy is $15. Each additional copy ordered at the same time is $6. If the requested record cannot be located, a “Certificate of Failure to Find” will be issued, and the search fee is non-refundable.
Online and Phone Requests
For those unable to apply in person or by mail, Alabama offers online ordering through VitalChek, a third-party service authorized to process vital records requests. Please note that additional service and shipping fees apply when using VitalChek.
For further assistance, applicants may also contact the Center for Health Statistics at (334) 206-5418. Representatives are available during standard business hours to answer questions regarding document requests, expedited services, or status inquiries.
Divorce Certificates vs. Divorce Decrees
It is important to distinguish between a divorce certificate and a divorce decree. A divorce certificate is a summary document maintained by the Alabama Department of Public Health and is primarily used to verify that a divorce occurred. It is commonly required for:
- Changing legal names or personal records
- Applying for remarriage
- Updating Social Security or retirement account information
A divorce decree, on the other hand, is issued by the Circuit Court and contains detailed terms of the divorce settlement. Individuals seeking information about child custody, alimony, or property division must obtain a copy of the decree directly from the court that finalized the divorce.
Apostille and Exemplified Copies for International Use
For individuals who require a divorce certificate for use in foreign countries, Apostille or Exemplified Copies may be necessary. These certified documents include a signature from the State Registrar and an additional certification from the Alabama Secretary of State. Requests for Apostille or Exemplified copies should be made through the Center for Health Statistics and may be subject to additional processing steps and fees.
Contact Information and Resources
For the most accurate and current information on ordering divorce certificates or other vital records, visit the Alabama Department of Public Health Vital Records Division online at alabamapublichealth.gov/vitalrecords, or contact the office directly at:
Center for Health StatisticsP.O. Box 5625Montgomery, AL 36103-5625Phone: (334) 206-5418
The office provides comprehensive services related to divorce records, marriage records, birth certificates, and death certificates, as well as health statistics for public health research and policy development.