Vital Statistics Registration Office holds about the last 24 months. Older deaths go to the County Recorder. Do not write Sacramento first.
Who may request
Authorized persons under California Health and Safety Code section 103526 (parent or legal guardian, child, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, spouse or domestic partner, funeral director acting for the family, attorney or court-appointed representative, government agency on official business). Others receive an informational copy, which banks will not take.
What to bring
Valid government-issued photo ID. Mail: completed application and a check or money order as the office lists. Confirm the current ID and notarization rules on the VSRO or Recorder page you will use.
Where to write or visit
Last 24 months: Department of Public Health, 340 N. Mt. View Ave., San Bernardino, CA 92415-0038. Older records: County Recorder, 222 W. Hospitality Lane, 1st Floor, San Bernardino, CA 92415-0022 (arc.sbcounty.gov).
Notes from the desk
Death copies are $26 each as of 1 Jan 2026. There is no cheaper extra. This office only issues deaths that occurred in San Bernardino County. CDPH is the statewide mail backup. Online orders, where offered, go through a vendor. This desk takes no cut.