San Diego Recorder/County Clerk
County Administration Center 1600 Pacific Highway, Suite 260, San Diego, California, 92101
Contact & location
- Address
- County Administration Center 1600 Pacific Highway, Suite 260, San Diego, California, 92101
- Mail-in address
- San Diego Recorder/County Clerk ATTN: Vital RecordsP.O. Box 121750, San Diego, California, 92112-1750
- Records for
- San Diego County, California
- Phone
- (619) 237-0502
- Official site
- Government website ↗
Last verified July 14, 2026
This office issues California state records
San Diego County follows California’s fees, eligibility rules and processing times. Compare the statewide baseline below before choosing where to go.
- $31.00
- California birth certificate fee
- 5–7 weeks
- Statewide processing
- 39,431,263
- California population
This office charges $32.00 — $1.00 more than the California fee.
See full California requirements, IDs & fees →Office hours
| Thrusday | 8:00 am - 5:00 p.m. |
|---|---|
| Fridays | 8:00 am - 5:00 p.m |
| Monday | 8:00 am - 5:00 p.m. |
| Tuesday | 8:00 am - 5:00 p.m. |
| Wednesday | 8:00 am - 5:00 p.m. |
| Saturday | closed |
| Sunday | closed |
Certificates, fees & processing
| Record | Fee | Processing |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | $32.00 | 5–7 weeksCalifornia estimate |
| Death Certificate | $24.00 | 5–7 weeksCalifornia estimate |
| Marriage Certificate | $17.00 | 5–7 weeksCalifornia estimate |
Processing times are set at state level — county offices do not publish their own — and are estimates that vary with demand.
The San Diego Recorder/County Clerk’s office or registry of vital records, offers a wide range of crucial services. These offices play a vital role in the protection and provision of essential documents such as birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage certificates . In addition to maintaining these primary records, they are responsible for managing and issuing copies of birth, marriage, and death records that occurred within the Township of San Diego. Alongside record maintenance, this office provides valuable services like issuing certified copies of documents, overseeing the registration of domestic partnerships, and offering assistance to rectify any errors detected in vital records. Through these comprehensive services, the vital records office ensures the accuracy, accessibility, and integrity of vital records for the benefit of the community.
Reviews
★★★★★4.2 (66)- ★★★★★Kate LesecqGoogle
AMAZING! In and out within 14 minutes for an expired passport! Free parking below with appointment, great customer service (Melissa), and in-house photography (Cheaper than FedEx)! Get your passport problems solved here!
- ★★★★★brandon colbertGoogle
As a native of San Diego and an experienced elopement photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless love stories at the San Diego Courthouse Civil Ceremony—it’s truly a wonderful place to exchange vows! The San Diego County Administration Center is not only a historic landmark, but its prime location in downtown, right by the harbor, offers breathtaking scenery for newlyweds' romantic and family portraits after the ceremony. With its elegant architecture, urban landscapes, and stunning waterfront views, it’s the perfect backdrop for such a meaningful occasion. The courthouse staff, officiants, and city employees do an outstanding job managing marriage license and ensuring that ceremonies go off without a hitch! Despite their many responsibilities, they remain professional, warm, and accommodating to couples and their guests. I’m always grateful to collaborate with them, documenting each couple’s happiness and love with care! If you're thinking about a civil ceremony in San Diego, I highly recommend this location—it’s beautiful, especially the outdoor ceremony! These trusted servants work hard to make your special day is truly memorable!
- ★★★★★Yeahoo WhoyahGoogle
Arrived around 9:00 to the Pacific Highway building using the Ash Street parking entrance taking advantage of free visitor parking while conducting business. Security screening conducted by SD County Sheriff Deputies. Proceeded upstairs to have a Grant Deed Recorded. I was the only customer there at this time, lucky me. I'd visited their website prior to coming so that I had all the proper forms filled out correctly. Process didn't take long, and I was on my way after paying the $29 fee. This 1930's WPA constructed art deco themed building has several informative hallway displays outlining its history. Fascinating. Worth a visit just for that!
- ★★★★★Brianna CaitlynnGoogle
We chose the downtown location for our elopement and are so happy we did. Everything was organized, and the staff were kind and cheerful, which made our day smooth and helped ease our nerves. The outdoor ceremony terrace overlooks the harbor and made a beautiful setting for our ceremony. We’re so glad we chose this location because both the views and the staff truly made our day special. Tip: There’s free parking under the park next to the County Administration Office for up to three hours, which is super convenient.
- ★★★★★Bausdelia MagañaGoogle
I came today because had passport appointment. I arrived about 30 minutes early. Everyone at the passport place was friendly and very helpful. Answered all my questions. Great customer service. After I was done say outside and had a late lunch nice and peaceful. While I was there 3 couples were taking pictures they had gotten married. The brides looked beautiful. Trolley leaves you up the street. Overall great experience.