Vital Records Services

Note: All applicants must provide a photocopy or show a valid government, school or employer issued photo identification. Applications without proper identification will be rejected and not processed.

3 Ways to apply for a report of divorce

Option 1:
Walk-in: Average processing time is 30-45 minutes
Requirements: Services:
  • State office – Processes reports of divorce
    • 2600 Bull St., Columbia, SC 29201

Option 2:
Mail: Average processing time is 2-4 weeks (standard), 3-5 business days (expedited)
Requirements: Mailing address:
  • 2600 Bull St., Columbia, SC 29201
Required information for mail requests
  • full name of person whose record is being requested;
  • the full date of divorce;
  • the county where the divorce was granted.

Option 3:
Phone and online orders: VitalChek is not affiliated with the State of South Carolina and a $12.95 charge in addition to state fees is applied.
  • Call 1-877-284-1008 (toll-free) or visit VitalChek 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.
  • Average processing time is 5-7 business days.

Who can obtain a certified copy of a divorce report?

You are entitled to obtain a certified copy of a divorce report if you are:

  • one of the divorced parties (husband or wife)
  • their adult child(ren)
  • a present or former spouse of either divorced party, or their respective legal representative.
  • Other applicants may be provided a statement that the divorce occurred, including the date and county of divorce.

How do I amend or change the information on a divorce report?

Refer to the clerk of court in the county where divorce was granted.

What information is needed to apply for a divorce report?

  • Full name and date of birth of the husband
  • Full name and date of birth of the wife
  • Date of divorce
  • County where the divorce hearing was held
  • Signature of the person requesting the divorce record and their current mailing address
  • Relationship between the divorced parties and the person requesting the certified copy
  • Full name and complete mailing address where the certified copies are to be mailed
  • Area code and daytime telephone number of the person requesting the divorce record
  • Any additional information you consider helpful in searching the divorce indexes (Example: nicknames, etc.)

How long will it take to receive a divorce report?

Walk-in:
Average processing time is 30-45 minutes
Mail requests:
2-4 weeks (standard), 3-5 business days (expedited)
Phone or online:
5-7 business days

How can I check on the status of a divorce report request?

If you have not received any response to your request within 30 days of submission, you may call 803-898-3630 or e-mail (mileslb@dhec.sc.gov) for an update.

For additional information, contact Vital Records.