Nevada divorce records are official court papers. They show that a marriage has legally ended in the state of Nevada. These papers list the full names of both people in the marriage. They show the date the divorce was filed. They show the final court order. The records come from county district courts across the state. They serve as a legal account of the court’s decision on a marriage.
You can get these records in person, by mail, or through online court systems. State laws control who can see them. Some details may be sealed or kept private. The cost and wait time depend on the county and the type of record you need. This page explains how the system works in 2026. It covers types of records, search steps, fees, legal reasons, and contact details for key offices.
How to Get Nevada Divorce Records
Nevada divorce records can come from two different sources, depending on what type of document is needed. A certified divorce decree is the official court record issued in the divorce case, while Nevada Court Services can help individuals understand which office handles specific court-related requests. The Nevada Office of Vital Records can provide a state-level search or verification for eligible divorce records. Knowing the difference helps avoid requesting the wrong document.
Certified Divorce Decree
A certified divorce decree is the official court order that finalizes a divorce and contains the terms established by the court. The decree is maintained by the court clerk in the county where the divorce was granted. It is not the same as a state-level divorce verification. A certified decree may be needed when someone must provide an official court document for legal, financial, or administrative purposes. Requests should be made through the appropriate county court clerk.
Nevada’s public-records guidance confirms that court records are maintained by the court or court clerk responsible for the case.
https://nsla.nv.gov/public-records/where-do-I-find-public-records
State Verification of Divorce
The Nevada Office of Vital Records, part of the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services, provides a separate search service for certain marriage and divorce records. This service can be used to search and verify that a divorce occurred during the periods covered by the state’s records. A state verification is not a certified copy of the divorce decree. It provides basic information confirming the divorce rather than the complete court order and terms.
The Nevada Office of Vital Records provides information about its marriage and divorce record services on its official website:
https://www.dpbh.nv.gov/Programs/Marriage/Marriage_and_Divorce_Records_-_Home/
Steps to Get Nevada Divorce Records
The correct process depends on whether you need a state-level verification or the complete divorce decree.
Know What Record You Need
First, determine which document is appropriate for your purpose.
- Full divorce decree: Request it from the county court clerk where the divorce was granted.
- Proof or verification of divorce: Check whether the Nevada Office of Vital Records can provide a search for the relevant record period.
- Legal use: A certified court copy may be required instead of a basic state verification.
Identifying the correct record before submitting a request can help prevent unnecessary fees and delays.
Use the State Divorce Record Search When Appropriate
If you do not know the county where the divorce occurred, the Nevada Office of Vital Records may help locate eligible divorce records through its Marriage and Divorce Search Request process. The state request form asks for identifying information such as the names of the people involved and information that can help narrow the search. Provide the most accurate date, city, or county information available. The state lists a $10 search fee per name for this search request, and the fee is nonrefundable. Requesters should confirm the current fee and submission instructions on the official Nevada Office of Vital Records website before mailing a request.
Request the Certified Divorce Decree From the Court
Once the county and divorce case information are known, contact the county court clerk that handled the divorce. Ask for a certified copy of the final divorce decree. Depending on the county, requests may be available in person, by mail, or through an online records service. Procedures, identification requirements, payment methods, and fees can vary by court.
When making the request, provide as much information as possible, including:
- Full names of both parties
- Approximate or exact divorce date
- County where the divorce was granted
- Case number, if available
- Valid identification when required
- Payment for the applicable copy or certification fee
The court clerk can explain the county’s current request procedure and the requirements for obtaining a certified copy.
State Search vs. Certified Divorce Decree
| Record | Where It Comes From | What It Provides |
|---|---|---|
| State divorce verification/search | Nevada Office of Vital Records | Basic information confirming an eligible divorce record |
| Certified divorce decree | County court clerk | Official court order containing the terms of the divorce |
| Full court case file | County court | Court filings and other documents maintained in the case |
The two sources serve different purposes. Use the state office when a record search or basic verification is needed, and contact the county court when the complete certified divorce decree is required.
Types of Divorce Records in Nevada
Nevada keeps three main types of divorce records. Each one has a separate legal use. Knowing the type you need saves time and money. The three types are divorce decrees, divorce certificates, and divorce case files.
Divorce Decrees – Final Court Order
A divorce decree is the final order from a Nevada court. It legally ends the marriage. The decree lists every decision the court made. It covers how property and debts get split. It covers child custody and visit plans. It covers child support and spousal support. It may also allow a name change for either spouse.
The court that issued the decree holds the original. You can ask for a certified copy at any time. A certified copy has a raised court seal. Banks, the Social Security office, and other agencies need a certified copy for legal use. The decree is the strongest proof that the divorce is final. Most people need at least one certified copy after a divorce.
Divorce Certificates – Short Proof of Divorce
A divorce certificate is a short form. It only proves that a divorce took place. It does not list the court terms or decisions. The certificate has the names of both people. It has the date the divorce was final. It has the county or state where the court granted the divorce.
The Nevada Office of Vital Records issues these certificates. They cover divorces from 1968 to 2005 and 2015 to the present. For other years, contact the county court where the case was filed. People use certificates to prove marital status, change a name, or update other basic records. The certificate cannot replace a decree in a legal case.
Divorce Case Files – Full Court Records
A divorce case file holds all the court papers from a divorce case. It has the first petition. It has motions, responses, and sworn statements. It has evidence lists, witness names, and hearing notes. It has the final judgment and any later changes to the order.
The county court keeps the case file in storage. Some parts may be sealed for privacy. Sealed parts deal with children, money, or health data. You can ask to see the file at the clerk’s office. While reviewing court documents, some people also request Marriage Records to verify legal marriage details or related information. You may need to file a written request. Some counties have docket details online, but the full file needs an in-person or mail request. Access is open to the public unless a judge has sealed a part.
Where to Find Nevada Divorce Records
Nevada divorce records sit in two places. The county court has the full decree and case file. The state vital records office has short verification. Use the right office for the right need. Going to the wrong office will waste your time and fee.
County Court Clerk’s Office
Each Nevada county has a clerk of court. The clerk holds the divorce decree and the full case file. You can go to the clerk’s office. You can write to the clerk. Some counties let you search online first. The clerk can issue certified copies for legal use. The clerk’s office is the only source for the full divorce decree.
State Office of Vital Records
The Nevada Office of Vital Records is part of the state health department. It can verify that a divorce happened between 1968 and 2005 and 2015 to the present. The office does not give out full decrees. It only confirms the fact of divorce in a short letter. The state office is a good place to start when you do not know the county where the divorce was filed. It can point you to the right court.
Ways to Request Nevada Divorce Records
You have three main ways to ask for Nevada divorce records. The right way depends on the county and the type of record. Each method has its own rules and wait times. Choose the method that fits your deadline.
Online Court Portals
Many Nevada counties have online case lookup. Clark County and Washoe County both offer this tool. You can search by name, case number, or filing date. The search shows case details and current status. Full certified copies are not always available online. You may need to ask in person or by mail after you locate the case number.
Not all counties offer full online access. Sealed records do not show up in any online search. Use the online tool for quick checks. Use it only for personal, lawful use. It is not for job screening, tenant screening, or credit checks. The Fair Credit Reporting Act bans use of public court records for these purposes.
In-Person Visits
Going to the court clerk’s office is the fastest way to get a certified copy. Visit the county where the divorce was granted. Bring a photo ID. Bring the full names, the date, and the case number if you have it. Fill out the request form at the desk. Pay the fee. Many clerks give the copy the same day if the file is on site.
Some records are sealed. Sealed records cover minors, money, or safety. You cannot see them without a court order. The clerk will tell you if the record is sealed. The clerk can point you to the steps to ask the court for access to a sealed file.
Mail-In Requests
You can ask for records by mail. Most county courts accept mail requests. The state vital records office also accepts them. Write a letter or use the official form. Include the names, date, and county. Include a copy of your photo ID. Include a money order or check for the fee. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return. Mail requests take 7 to 15 business days, not counting mail time.
Fees and Wait Times
The cost and timing of your request depend on the county. They also depend on the type of record. The table below shows the current fee ranges for 2026.
Cost of Records
| Type of Document | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Certified Divorce Decree | $15 to $25 per copy |
| Plain Photocopy | $5 to $10 per copy |
| Search Fee (no copy) | $1 to $5 per name |
| State Verification of Divorce | $10 per name |
Fees can change each year. Check with the county or state office for the current cost before you send money. Some offices accept cash, check, or money order. Some accept credit cards for in-person visits. Mailing a money order is the safest option for mail requests.
How Long It Takes
Online lookups give instant results for basic case data. In-person requests often get same-day service at the clerk’s window. Mail-in requests take 5 to 15 business days, not counting mail time. Larger counties like Clark and Washoe often have faster systems and online tools. Smaller counties may need more time to pull files from storage. Plan ahead if you have a court deadline.
Legal Reasons for Divorce in Nevada
Nevada law lists the legal reasons to end a marriage. The main law is Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 125.010. Most divorces in Nevada are no-fault. The law also lists other reasons and rules about who can file.
No-Fault Divorce
The most common reason in Nevada is incompatibility. This means the couple cannot live together as spouses. No one has to prove wrongdoing. The court grants the divorce based on this reason alone. No-fault divorce is faster and costs less. It avoids the need for evidence of bad acts by either spouse.
Other Legal Grounds
Nevada allows divorce on two other grounds. One is living apart. If the spouses live in separate homes for one year or more with no contact, they can file on this ground. The other ground is insanity. If one spouse has been declared legally insane for two years before filing, the court may grant the divorce. Medical proof is needed for the insanity claim. The court will review the proof before granting the divorce.
Who Can File in Nevada
At least one spouse must live in Nevada for six weeks before filing. This rule applies to all counties. The spouse must sign an affidavit. The affidavit confirms the time spent in Nevada. A friend, employer, or landlord can sign as a witness on the affidavit. The court will not accept the case without this proof.
Time Before Final Divorce
Nevada does not set a fixed waiting period by law. Courts may take up to six months to finish a case. The time covers property disputes, custody talks, and support talks. If both spouses agree on all terms, the court can finish faster. The exact time depends on the court schedule and the county’s work load.
Sealing Nevada Divorce Records
Nevada divorce records are public by default. Courts can seal them in certain cases. Sealing hides the record from public view. The records stay in the court file. The court sets the rules for who can see them. Sealing is not the same as deletion. The file is not destroyed.
Who Can Ask to Seal Records
Either spouse can ask to seal the records. A lawyer or guardian can also ask. The court looks at the reason. The court will not seal records just because someone wants privacy. The court looks for a legal reason. The harm from public view must be greater than the public right to know. Personal embarrassment is not enough.
Valid Reasons to Seal
The court may seal records to protect children. It may seal records to protect a spouse from abuse or threats. It may seal sensitive money or health details. It may seal private settlement papers. A general wish for privacy is not enough. There must be a real risk of harm if the records stay public.
How to File a Motion to Seal
The person asking files a motion. The motion lists the records to seal and the reasons. The other party can object in writing. The court may hold a hearing. The court weighs privacy against the public right to know. If the court agrees, it issues a sealing order. The order tells which parts are sealed. Sealed parts stay in the court file. They are hidden from public view.
Official Offices and Contact Details
These are the main offices for Nevada divorce records in 2026. Use them for verified, official copies. Phone lines are open during the hours listed. All times are Pacific Time.
Nevada Office of Vital Records
This office verifies divorces from 1968 to 2005 and 2015 to the present. It does not hold full decrees. It confirms the fact of divorce only.
Address: 4150 Technology Way, Suite 104, Carson City, NV 89706
Phone: (775) 684-4242
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: dpbh.nv.gov
Clark County District Court – Family Division
Clark County handles divorces in Las Vegas and nearby areas. The Family Division keeps decrees, custody orders, and other case papers.
Address: 601 North Pecos Road, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Phone: (702) 455-2590
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Website: clarkcountycourts.us
Washoe County Family Court – Second Judicial District
Washoe County covers Reno, Sparks, and nearby areas. The court keeps divorce records unless a judge has sealed the file.
Address: 75 Court Street, Reno, NV 89501
Phone: (775) 328-3110
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Website: washoecourts.com
Self-Help and Legal Aid Centers
These centers help people who do not have lawyers. They do not give legal advice. They offer forms and clear steps for divorce and record requests. They are free to use.
Clark County Family Law Self-Help Center – familylawselfhelpcenter.org
Washoe County Self-Help Center – washoecourts.com
Nevada Legal Services – nevadalegalservices.org
Frequently Asked Questions
These questions cover common points about Nevada divorce records. They cover record content, access rules, request times, and error fixes. The answers are based on Nevada state law and current court practice as of 2026. Each answer gives a clear, direct response to a real user need.
What details are in a Nevada divorce record?
A Nevada divorce record has key data about the end of a marriage. It lists the full legal names of both spouses. It lists the date the court filed the case. It lists the county where the court granted the divorce. It lists the case number for court tracking. The full decree version has the court’s final terms. These terms cover how property and debt are split. They cover child custody and visit plans. They cover child support and spousal support. They may allow a name change for either spouse. The short certificate version only has the names, date, and county. It does not list court terms. Some records have extra filings, such as motions, sworn statements, or sealed parts. The amount of data depends on the type of record and the county where the divorce was filed. The court issues certified copies with a raised seal for legal use. The seal proves the record is real and unaltered. Banks, government offices, and other agencies need this proof for most legal steps after a divorce. A single divorce may need several certified copies for different agencies.
Who keeps divorce records in Nevada?
Nevada divorce records are kept at the county level. The Clerk of Court in each county holds the records for that county. The clerk stores the original decree, the case file, and any later filings. The state Office of Vital Records holds a separate index. The state office can verify that a divorce happened between 1968 and 2005 and 2015 to the present. The state office does not hold full decrees. For older or newer records outside that range, the county clerk is the only source. The clerk’s office can issue certified copies. The state office can issue short verification letters. Each office has its own fee and wait time. Records stay with the court that granted the divorce, even if one or both spouses move out of state. If the case was appealed, the Nevada Supreme Court may also hold papers. Most records stay at the trial court level for public access. The clerk’s office is the main point of contact for any record request.
Are Nevada divorce records open to the public?
Yes, most Nevada divorce records are open to the public. State law treats them as public court records. Anyone can ask to see them. You do not need to be a party to the case. You do not need to give a reason. The court must give access unless a judge has sealed the file. Some parts of a file may be sealed. Sealed parts cover children, money details, or safety risks. The clerk redacts sealed parts before giving copies. To see a sealed part, you need a court order. You can ask the court for an order, but the court will not grant it without a legal reason. Use of the records is limited to personal, non-business use. The Fair Credit Reporting Act bans use of these records for jobs, housing, or credit choices. The clerk may ask how you plan to use the record before giving you a copy. The clerk may deny the request if the use is for a banned purpose.
How long until a divorce record is public?
A Nevada divorce record becomes part of the public file after the court signs the final decree. In most cases, this happens within days of the court hearing. The clerk files the decree and adds it to the docket. The docket is the public list of court cases. Some counties post the docket online the same day. Other counties take a few days or weeks. The exact time depends on the county’s work load and digital systems. Larger counties like Clark and Washoe post cases faster. Smaller counties may need more time. Once the docket is public, the file can be viewed. Getting a certified copy may take longer. In-person requests often get copies the same day. Mail requests take 7 to 15 business days. Records for older cases may take more time to locate, especially if the file is in off-site storage. Plan ahead for older record requests.
Can I get someone else’s divorce record in Nevada?
Yes, you can ask for another person’s divorce record in Nevada. The records are public. You do not need to be a party to the case. You do not need a lawyer. You can go to the county clerk’s office. You can write to the clerk. You can use the online lookup if the county has one. The clerk will ask for names, the date, and the county. You must show a photo ID. You must pay the fee. The clerk will give you a copy unless the record is sealed. Sealed records are not public. You would need a court order to see them. The clerk cannot give you a sealed record. Even for public records, the clerk will redact private details, such as Social Security numbers and bank account numbers. Use of the record is for personal use only. Use for jobs, housing, or credit choices is not allowed under federal law. The clerk may ask about your use before issuing the copy.
What is the difference between a divorce decree and a divorce certificate in Nevada?
A divorce decree and a divorce certificate are two different papers. A decree is the full court order that ends the marriage. It lists all the court’s decisions. It covers property, debt, custody, support, and name change. The decree is the legal proof of the divorce. Banks, courts, and government offices need a certified copy of the decree. A certificate is a short form. It only lists the names of the spouses, the date, and the county. It does not list court terms. It just proves that a divorce took place. The state vital records office issues certificates for divorces from 1968 to 2005. The county court issues decrees for all years. Decrees are used for legal actions. Certificates are used for simple proof, such as a name change at the DMV. The cost is also different. Decrees cost more due to the certified copy fee. Certificates cost less due to the simple form. Choose the right one for your need.
How do I fix an error on a Nevada divorce record?
You can fix an error on a Nevada divorce record by filing a motion with the court. The motion asks the court to correct the mistake. Common errors include misspellings, wrong dates, or wrong names. You must file the motion in the county where the court issued the decree. Bring proof of the correct data. This can be a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or other court papers. The court will look at your motion. The court may grant the fix without a hearing. The court may set a hearing if the other party objects. After the court approves, the clerk updates the record. You can then ask for a new certified copy with the correct data. For state verification records, contact the Office of Vital Records. They can update their index if the court order shows the change. Fixing an error usually costs a small filing fee. The time depends on the court schedule. Most simple fixes take a few weeks.