Wisconsin Divorce Certificate Application

What Is a Divorce Certificate?

A Wisconsin divorce certificate, also known as a divorce decree or divorce record, is an official document issued by the circuit court that proves a marriage has been legally terminated. The certificate includes the names of both parties, the date the divorce was finalized, the courts jurisdiction, and the case number. It is commonly required for:

• Changing your name on a drivers license, passport, or Social Security card
• Remarrying
• Applying for a mortgage, loan, or other financial instrument
• Obtaining a new healthcare plan
• Legal matters such as custody or property disputes

Who Can Request the Certificate?

Wisconsin law limits who may obtain a copy of a divorce record. Eligible requestors include:

• The parties named on the divorce decree (the petitioner and respondent)
• Any person who can provide a documented legal interest (e.g., an attorney or a government agency)
• Those who receive written consent from either party

Requests made by unrelated third parties without a court order or written permission will be denied.

Where to Apply

Divorce records are maintained by the circuit court in the county where the divorce was finalized. You may submit a request to:

• The Clerk of Courts in the appropriate county
• The Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Vital Records Section (for certified copies only)

Most counties provide an online form, a downloadable PDF, or a mailin option. Below is a list of the major county clerk websites.

• Dane County
• Milwaukee County
• Waukesha County
• Racine County

Required Information

When you fill out the application, have the following details ready:

• Full legal names of both spouses (including maiden names if applicable)
• Date of birth for each spouse
• Date the divorce was finalized
• Court case number (if known)
• County where the divorce was granted
• Reason for the request (e.g., name change, remarriage, legal matter)
• Proof of identity (valid drivers license, state ID, or passport)

StepbyStep Application Process

1. Locate the correct county clerk. Identify the county where the divorce was filed. Use the links above or a quick web search.
2. Choose your delivery method. Most counties accept:
   • Online submission (fastest)
   • Mail (attach a selfaddressed stamped envelope)
   • Inperson at the clerks office
3. Complete the application form. Provide all required details. If you are requesting a certified copy, be sure to mark the certified box.
4. Attach identification. Include a clear copy of a governmentissued photo ID. If you are applying by mail, a notarized statement of identity may be required.
5. Pay the fee. Fees vary by county but generally range from $5 to $15 for a certified copy. Payment methods usually include cash, check, money order, or credit card (online).
6. Submit the request. Send the completed form, ID copy, and fee to the clerks address or complete the online transaction.
7. Wait for processing. Typical turnaround is 310 business days for online requests and 24 weeks for mail requests.
8. Receive your certificate. Certified copies are mailed in a tamperevident envelope. If you selected a digital copy, a secure PDF link will be sent via email.

Fees and Payment Options

Below are typical fee structures (subject to change):

Most counties accept credit cards online, while checks or money orders are required for mailin requests. Verify accepted payment methods on the countys website before sending.

Common Reasons for Denial

• Insufficient proof of identity. The clerk must verify you are either a party to the divorce or have a documented legal interest.
• Missing fees. Applications without the correct payment are returned.
• Incorrect county. Requesting from the wrong jurisdiction will delay processing.
• Incomplete forms. Omitting required fields (e.g., case number) can cause a rejection.

After You Receive the Certificate

Once you have the certified divorce certificate, you can use it for the following actions:

• File a namechange petition with the Wisconsin circuit court (if you intend to revert to a maiden name)
• Update your Social Security record (visit a local SSA office or submit Form SS5)
• Change the name on your drivers license or state ID at the DMV
• Provide proof of marital status to a prospective employer or insurer

Keep the original in a safe place (e.g., a fireproof safe) and store a photocopy for everyday needs.

Need Assistance?

If you encounter difficulties, consider the following resources:

• County Clerks Office Call the specific countys clerk for guidance.
• Wisconsin State Legal Aid Offers free or lowcost assistance for qualified individuals.
• Local Family Law Attorney Helpful if you need certified copies for litigation.

For general questions, you can also email the Wisconsin Department of Health Services at records@wisconsin.gov.