📅 2026 Update: Recent Changes to Pennsylvania Divorce Records

Since the original article was published, there have been some notable updates regarding divorce records in Pennsylvania. The statistics regarding divorce rates and costs have shifted. This section highlights the most important changes that affect how individuals can access and request divorce records.

More detailed information about Pennsylvania divorce records continues further down the page.

📉 Divorce Rates

In 2025, Pennsylvania recorded 26,762 divorces and annulments. This number is a decrease from the 27,210 divorces reported in 2024. This trend could indicate a change in family dynamics or improved marriage stability in the state.

💰 Current Fees for Records

The fees associated with obtaining divorce records have remained stable. The Pennsylvania Department of Health charges $5 for uncertified copies and $20 for certified copies of vital records. It's important to note these costs when planning to request your records.

⌛ Processing Times

When requesting copies of vital records, individuals should allow 2 to 3 weeks for processing. This timeframe is crucial for those who need records promptly, whether for legal or personal reasons.

📑 Requesting Divorce Records

To obtain divorce records, individuals must contact the Prothonotary's Office in the county where the divorce was granted. This office is the primary point of contact for accessing these records, ensuring that you reach the correct location.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • 📉 Divorce rates decreased from 27,210 in 2024 to 26,762 in 2025.
  • 💰 Vital records fees remain at $5 for uncertified and $20 for certified copies.
  • ⌛ Processing time for requests is 2 to 3 weeks.
  • 📑 Contact the Prothonotary's Office for divorce records.
  • 🏛️ Historical records dating back to 1804 are available.

💡 Tips for Accessing Pennsylvania Divorce Records

Review the details of your situation with your attorney to ensure you understand your options.

🗂️ Know the Types of Records Available

Understanding the types of divorce records available can help you know what to request. Certified copies are official documents, while uncertified copies might be acceptable for personal use. Choose the right type based on your needs.

🏢 Locate the Right Office

Make sure to identify and contact the Prothonotary's Office in the correct county where the divorce occurred. Each county maintains its records, so reaching out to the right office is crucial for a successful request.

📅 Plan for Processing Times

Be aware that it may take 2 to 3 weeks for your request to be processed. If you need the records for a specific date or event, plan accordingly to avoid delays.

📄 Use Online Resources

Some historical divorce records are available online. Check platforms like Ancestry.com for access to certain records, especially if you are conducting genealogical research.

🆓 Explore Free Assistance Options

If you need help with genealogical research, the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission offers resources and guidance. This can be beneficial for those looking into family histories or verifying information.

📝 Keep Records Organized

When making your request, keep all relevant information organized. This includes dates, names, and any other identifying details that may help expedite your process.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ How can I obtain my divorce records?

To obtain divorce records, contact the Prothonotary's Office in the county where the divorce was granted. They handle requests for these records.

📄 Are historical divorce records available?

Yes, divorce records have been maintained since 1804 in the Prothonotary's Office. You can request these records for genealogical research or personal reasons.

⏰ What are the processing times for records?

When requesting copies of vital records, allow 2 to 3 weeks for processing. This timeframe helps ensure accurate and timely delivery of your documents.

💵 What are the costs for certified copies of divorce records?

The fee for certified copies of vital records in Pennsylvania is $20. Uncertified copies cost $5.

🌐 Can I access divorce records online?

Some historical records are available online through platforms like Ancestry.com. Check these resources for access to certain records.

🆓 Is there free help for research?

The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission offers resources for genealogical research, including access to vital records. This can be a helpful option for those looking into family histories.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Divorce Records

Recent court rulings have highlighted various aspects of divorce law and the accessibility of records in Pennsylvania. The details of these rulings can provide further context for individuals seeking divorce records or involved in divorce proceedings.

For more recent rulings, feel free to browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






 



Vital records in Pennsylvania are not public records and most vital records do not become public until 105 years after one’s birth and 50 years after divorces, marriages and deaths.  It is due to these privacy concerns that no person may access Pennsylvania divorce records online.  Divorce records are kept in the Prothonotary’s Office in the appropriate county where the divorce took place.  You will not be able to view or access divorce records of other persons and you must demonstrate close relation to either spouse mentioned in the divorce record in order to gain access to it.



 

Pennsylvania Divorce Records Online


Find Pennsylvania divorce records



Since you will not be able to view the Pennsylvania divorce records online, you can still use the Pennsylvania Department of Health website to locate the appropriate county and marriage records office to find the Pennsylvania divorce records you are seeking.  All arrangements will run through the county government, including procedures and fees to obtain that divorce certificate and record.



 



Obtaining a divorce decrees



Every county has a similar procedure and fee schedule to receive a divorce decrees.  In Lackawanna County for example, one must pay a fee of $8.70 to the office of the Clerk of Judicial records in order to have their record retrieved.  This request can be mail by mail or in person, but there is no procedure to order Pennsylvania divorce records online. 



 



In general, when applying to obtain a copy of the divorce decree, you must demonstrate your relation to the party named on the record.  You must also provide the names of the spouses, date of the divorce and location of the divorce, if possible.  Additional search fees will be assessed if the date or location is not provided and those fees will depend on the range of years that must be searched.



 



Using a third party



Unlike other states, every divorce record is housed in their respective country and no third party, even third parties usually trusted by state governments, will be able to authorize you viewing Pennsylvania divorce records online.  Only close relations and the spouses themselves, as well as some legal representatives are allowed to access county divorce records.



 



Searching for Pennsylvania divorce records online will yield a number of results, but none will issue a certified divorce decree.  Sites that do claim to offer Pennsylvania divorce records online are likely to offer incomplete information based on public court documents and none of the information can be trusted and verifiable.  No person that is not a party to the divorce case will be allowed open access to view personal information.



 



Genealogical research may be performed on older records, but the state of Pennsylvania will not allow divorce records to become public record until fifty years after the divorce took place.