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Legal Disclaimer: US Birth Certificates is a privately owned website that is not affiliated with, not owned or operated by any government agency. US Birth Certificates is an independent preparer that provides vital records application preparation assistance services. If you are looking for blank forms, you can get them for free at the relevant state office.
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Apply for your Divorce Certificate Save time and avoid government lines. Apply for your divorce certificate online in under 5 minutes.
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Expert review and quick turnaround Receive your mistake-free revised application and all the documents to mail your application and get your certificate.
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Get your Divorce Certificate Once you submit your application you will get your divorce certificate delivered to your home.
Understanding the New York State Divorce Record System
New York State divorce certificates are officially called Certificates of Dissolution of Marriage.
They’re issued by the New York State Department of Health, Vital Records Certification Unit. They cover divorces and civil annulments granted in New York State from January 1, 1963, to present, including New York City.
Divorces granted before 1963 are available only as the divorce decree, which must be obtained from the county clerk in the county where the divorce was finalized.
NYS Department of Health Certificate vs. County Clerk's Decree
A New York State divorce certificate shows the names of the spouses, the date of the divorce, and the county where it was granted.
It serves as official proof that the marriage ended and is often used for updating records, applying for benefits, or confirming marital status. It doesn’t include the court’s terms or orders.
A divorce decree is the full court document filed with the county clerk. It contains all legal terms, including property, custody, and support arrangements.
Copies are generally needed for legal matters or enforcement of court orders and are typically available only to the parties or their attorney.
Strict Eligibility Requirements for a Divorce Certificate in NY
In New York, access to divorce documents is restricted to protect privacy. Only the parties or their attorney may view or obtain a copy unless a court order permits access. To order a divorce certificate, you must:
- Be named as a spouse on the record, or
- Hold a valid New York State court order
Identification is required to request a copy of a divorce certificate. You must provide a valid photo ID or two documents showing your name and address.
Accepted IDs include:
- Driver’s license
- State-issued nondriver photo ID
- Passport
- U.S. military ID
Accepted address documents include:
- Utility bills
- Telephone bills
- Government correspondence dated within six months
If you’re filing your request from outside the United States, you may need to provide a copy of your valid U.S. passport in addition to the standard identification documents.
How to Get a New York Divorce Certificate Online
It only takes a few minutes to order your New York divorce certificate copy online:
- Complete the online application: Include the names of both spouses, the divorce date, and the county. Our form has tooltips to help you understand what’s needed
- We check your application: Our team reviews your form to help avoid errors and delays. When it’s ready, we explain the next submission steps
- Receive your certificate: Once approved, a certified copy of your divorce certificate will be mailed to your home address
NY Divorce Certificate Mail Applications
You can also request a New York divorce certificate by mail. You’ll need to complete an application form, including the names of both spouses, the date of the divorce, the county where it was granted, and your contact information.
Include payment and mail your application to:
New York State Department of Health Vital Records Certification Unit P.O. Box 2602 Albany, NY 12220-2602
Serving All New York State Counties and Court Districts
The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) issues copies of certificates for divorces granted statewide from January 1, 1963, including New York City.
For divorces granted before 1963, or for full divorce decrees, you must contact the county clerk in the county where the divorce was finalized. County procedures, fees, and in-person availability may vary. Contact the relevant office to get the latest information.
Get your state-issued certified record
If you need an official copy of a vital record, it only takes a few minutes to apply securely from the comfort of home.
Start any vital record application from only $59
Frequently Asked Questions About NYS Divorce Certificates
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Once your mail-in application has been received, processing can take approximately 10 to 12 weeks. Online or phone orders are processed in 5 to 10 business days, not including mailing time.
Priority handling for mail orders is available for an additional $45 fee per copy and can be sent via overnight carrier if a prepaid envelope is provided.
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Yes. For divorces granted on or after January 1, 1963, NYSDOH issues certificates statewide, including for cases in New York City and all other state counties. For divorces granted before 1963 in NYC, you must request the record directly from the county clerk.
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Only a spouse named on the record or a person with a valid New York State court order may request a certificate. You need to provide proof of identity when submitting your application.
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Mail order is $30 per copy for NY divorce certificates. Priority mail handling is available for $45 per copy, which includes a $15 priority fee. Online or phone orders through state channels cost $45 per copy, plus additional processing fees.
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