Santa Ana, CA – The Orange County Clerk-Recorder’s Office has earned national recognition for its innovative virtual assistant, CRBot, which has been awarded a 2025 Achievement Award by the National Association of Counties (NACo). The honor recognizes forward-thinking and impactful county programs that enhance service delivery and improve residents' experiences.

Launched in March 21, 2024, CRBot is a 24/7 chatbot that helps users navigate Clerk-Recorder services including birth certificates, marriage licenses, property records, and passports, anytime through OCRecorder.com. Designed to reduce call volume and support routine questions, CRBot also connects users to live agents when needed. In its first year, it assisted 7,187 users, with fewer than 8 percent requiring further help.

The department’s commitment to digital innovation and expanding equitable access to government services, especially for residents who need support after regular hours or prefer mobile interaction.

“I am honored and grateful to receive this national recognition,” said Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen. “CRBot represents how we continue to evolve by embracing innovation to serve our community better. My team remains focused on improving access to public services in ways that are modern, efficient, and customer first.”

Each year, NACo’s Achievement Awards recognize outstanding programs across 18 categories that reflect the broad range of services counties provide. These categories include children and youth, criminal justice and public safety, libraries, management, information technology, health, civic engagement, and more. Launched in 1970, the program celebrates innovation and excellence in county government.

“The Achievement Awards shine a spotlight on the hard work and innovation happening in county governments across the nation,” said NACo President James Gore. “This year’s winners highlight the dedication and creativity of county leaders and our teams to building thriving communities and providing the best possible services to our residents.” 

For more information about the Clerk-Recorder Department, please visit - OCRecorder.com.

For more information about NACo’s Achievement Awards, click here.

SANTA ANA, Calif. - Hundreds of Orange County residents flocked to the County Administration South building today for a one-day Apostille Pop-Up Shop hosted by Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen in partnership with the California Secretary of State. By 4:00 p.m., the combined team had assisted over 706 customers and processed 1,704 apostilles, shattering the county’s single-day record and underscoring the demand for convenient, local document authentication.

“Thank you to the California Secretary of State, Dr. Shirley N. Weber, for visiting and witnessing our event. We are very happy for the support of the Secretary of State for nearly doubling her staff to help the public save time and money by processing their apostille in OC without having to travel to Los Angeles or mailing their application to Sacramento,” said Hugh Nguyen.

Secretary Weber toured the operation, applauding the collaboration that spared customers the long drive to Los Angeles or the wait of mailing paperwork to Sacramento.

What is an Apostille?

• An Apostille is a certificate that authenticates California public officials’ signatures on documents intended for use outside of the United States.

• Examples of documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, single status certificates, educational records, and more.

• Typically, individuals seeking in-person Apostille services must travel to the California Secretary of State’s offices in Los Angeles or Sacramento, or they may mail their request to the Sacramento office.

The Clerk-Recorder’s Office shares footage for use ONLY by the media.

Click on the following link: FOR MEDIA

For more information or media inquiries, please contact Billy Le at 714-834-2248.

After hosting two highly successful Apostille Pop-Up Shops in 2024, Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen is partnering again with the California Secretary of State to bring the one-day Apostille Pop-Up Shop back to Orange County. The event will take place at the County Administration South Building on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 601 N. Ross St, Santa Ana, CA 92701. No appointments are necessary. Services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Last year, the Apostille Pop-Up Shops in Orange County helped customers save time and money,” said Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen. “I invite anyone needing Apostille services to visit us on May 14th to receive Apostille services on-the-spot without needing travel to Los Angeles or mail their requests to Sacramento.”

What is an Apostille?

• An Apostille is a certificate that authenticates California public officials’ signatures on documents intended for use outside of the United States. 

• Examples of documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, single status certificates, educational records, and more. 

• Typically, individuals seeking in-person Apostille services must travel to the California Secretary of State’s offices in Los Angeles or Sacramento, or they may mail their request to the Sacramento office. 

To ensure a smooth experience, please bring the following:

• A document signed by a California public official or an original notarized and/or certified document. Photocopy is not acceptable. 

• A completed Apostille Pop-Up Shop Request Cover Sheet found at:

   https://notary.cdn.sos.ca.gov/forms/apostille-request-apus.pdf

• California Secretary of State processing fee is $20 for each apostille document, along with a $6 special handling fee for every public official’s authentication signature. Payments for apostille services can be made using Visa, Mastercard, checks, or money orders. No cash accepted.

• Notary public services will be available on-site from the OC Clerk of the Board office for $15 per signature and paid for by personal check or cash only. Make check payable to the County of Orange.

For more information about obtaining an Apostille, visit the California Secretary of State’s website. 

For any questions, please call the department’s information line at (714) 834-2500 during normal business hours Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays. Visit OCRecorder.com for details. For media inquiries, please contact Billy Le at 714-834-2248

(Santa Ana, CA) Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen is proud to mark the one-year anniversary of CRBot, the department’s interactive chatbot that has transformed how the public accesses information about essential services. Since its launch on March 21, 2024, CRBot has provided instant, around-the-clock answers to frequently asked questions on topics like birth certificates, marriage licenses, and property records.

In its first year, CRBot served 7,187 users, with 6,651 receiving immediate answers without needing live assistance, helping to reduce call volume and wait times for more complex inquiries. Only 536 users were redirected to a live chat agent during business hours, highlighting the chatbot’s effectiveness in resolving routine questions. The program’s success reflects the Clerk-Recorder’s commitment to modernizing public services and improving the customer experience.

“CRBot has been a game-changer for our office,” said Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen. “It reflects our commitment to innovation and to making our services more accessible to the residents of Orange County, anytime, anywhere.”

CRBot is available 24/7 at OCRecorder.com and is fully compatible with smartphones and mobile devices. The chatbot’s success stems from its ability to ease staff workload while increasing convenience for users, especially those with busy schedules or urgent questions outside business hours.

Key Milestones in CRBot’s First Year:

• 7,187 total users accessed CRBot

• 6,651 resolved their inquiries through the chatbot alone

• 536 required live agent support for more complex matters

To explore CRBot and get instant answers, visit OCRecorder.com. For additional assistance, call the Clerk-Recorder’s information line at (714) 834-2500, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For media inquiries, please contact Billy Le at (714) 834-2248.

Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen is pleased to announce an additional Special Passport Day on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Old Orange County Courthouse, located at 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, CA 92701. This event is being organized in response to the overwhelming demand for passport services. Scheduled on a weekend, it is designed to accommodate those with weekday commitments at school or work, which is particularly beneficial for parents. Note that both parents are required to be present for passport applications for children under the age of 16, while only one parent needs to accompany applicants aged 16 and 17.

“This extra Passport Day ensures that more residents can receive timely service, allowing everyone to have the necessary documents for their travels,” said Clerk-Recorder Nguyen. The day offers opportunities for taking passport photos and applying for new passports. Due to the high volume of interest, securing an appointment is highly recommended; however, walk-ins will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

To ensure a smooth process, please bring the following items:

• A completed and unsigned DS-11 Form

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship

• Proof of Identity 

• A check or money order for the U.S. Department of State fees

• Payments for the Clerk-Recorder’s processing fee of $35 and the passport photo fee of $7, which can be made via cash, credit/debit card, money order, or check payable to “Orange County Clerk-Recorder” 

For additional information on passport renewal eligibility and to schedule your appointment, please visit our website at OCCLERKRECORDER.GOV. Our call center is available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding holidays, at (714) 834-2500. For media inquiries, please contact Billy Le at (714) 834-2248.

Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen invites families and individuals to prepare for their summer travels at the 9th Special Passport Day on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Old Orange County Courthouse, located at 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, CA 92701. This Special Passport Day will be a one-stop shop to get passport photos taken and apply for a new passport. Due to high demand, appointments are highly recommended. Walk-ins are accepted on a first come, first served basis. To book an appointment for Passport Day, please visit OCCLERKRECORDER.GOV. 

“Since 2017, Special Passport Day has been a fantastic opportunity for busy families and individuals to apply for a new passport without missing school or work,” said Clerk-Recorder Nguyen. “Let us help you get a head start on your travel plans.”

Special Passport Day is scheduled on a weekend to accommodate those with weekday commitments at school or work. This timing is particularly beneficial for parents, as both parents are required for passport applications for children under the age of 16. For applicants aged 16 and 17, only one parent's presence is necessary.

To ensure a smooth experience, please bring the following:

• A completed and unsigned DS-11 Form

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship

• Proof of Identity 

• A check or money order for the U.S. Department of State fees

• Payments for the Clerk-Recorder’s processing fee of $35 and the passport photo fee of $7, which can be made via cash, credit/debit card, money order, or check payable to “Orange County Clerk-Recorder” 

For passport renewal eligibility, please visit the U.S. Department of State website.

For more information, call (714) 834-2500 or visit OCCLERKRECORDER.GOV. Our information line is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays. For media inquiries, please contact Billy Le at (714) 834-2248.

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Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen, in collaboration with the City of Westminster, will perform the first-ever renewal of vow ceremony during the highly anticipated annual 2025 Westminster Tet Parade on Saturday, February 1, 2025. The parade begins at the intersection of Bolsa Ave. and Magnolia St. and will head eastbound on Bolsa Ave. The opening ceremony is scheduled at 8:30 a.m., followed by the parade at 9:30 a.m. For the first time in the event’s history, one special couple will have the unique opportunity to renew their vows during the parade in front of thousands of attendees and viewers worldwide.

“The Westminster Tet Parade and Lunar New Year celebrates unity, family, love, and new beginnings,” said Clerk-Recorder Nguyen. “It is the perfect occasion to honor these values, and I am thrilled to perform a renewal of vow ceremony for one couple to reaffirm their commitment to each other and celebrate their love in front of loved ones and the community.”

The Westminster Tet Parade is the world’s largest Tet Parade and has been held in the heart of Little Saigon for over 20 years. The event is a vibrant celebration of the Lunar New Year and the Vietnamese American community, complete with beautiful floats, lion dances, community organizations, and cultural performances. With the renewal of vow ceremony, Clerk-Recorder Nguyen will be bringing a special and heartfelt addition to the parade.

The renewal of vow ceremony offers a meaningful way for couples to reaffirm their commitment. Whether celebrating a milestone anniversary, recreating a ceremony delayed by the pandemic, or simply looking for a unique way to honor their love, this renewal of vow promises an intimate and unforgettable experience. Couples are welcome to have their children, parents, grandparents, or any loved ones join the special moment. Couples wishing to renew their vows at the Orange County Clerk-Recorder’s three beautiful locations in Santa Ana, Laguna Hills, or Anaheim may book their appointment at: https://cr.ocgov.com/OCRenewalVows/ 

For more information, call (714) 834-2500 or visit  OCRecorder.com. The information line is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays. For media inquiries, please contact Billy Le at (714) 834-2248.

Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen will once again extend ceremony hours until 6 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the Anaheim, Laguna Hills, and Old County Courthouse in Santa Ana for marriage services only. The extended hours aim to accommodate couples looking to tie the knot or renew their vows on the most romantic day of the year, Valentine’s Day.

Appointments are highly recommended to avoid delays; however, walk-ins will be served on a first-come, first-served basis. Before arriving, couples must complete a marriage license application online at: https://ocweddings.ocrecorder.com

“With Valentine’s Day falling on a Friday this year, it may be one of our busiest days, and we want to ensure every couple has a beautiful, unforgettable experience as they begin or reaffirm their love story,” said Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen.

To help couples share their special day with loved ones both near and far, the department offers live-stream weddings. For married couples wishing to reaffirm their bond, renewal of vow ceremonies are also available, complete with a complimentary souvenir certificate as a keepsake of the special day.

Important reminders to ensure a smooth experience for couples.

• Online Application: Required for marriage licenses prior to arrival.
• Identification: Both parties must present valid government-issued photo ID.
• Witness: At least one witness is required for a public marriage license ceremony.
• Payments: Accepted forms include cash, credit/debit card, check, cashier’s check, or    money order (payable to the Orange County Clerk-Recorder).

Marriage Services & Fees

• Public Marriage License: $61
• Confidential Marriage License: $66
• Civil Marriage Ceremony: $28
• Renewal of Vow Ceremony: $28

For more information, call (714) 834-2500 or visit  OCRecorder.com. The information line is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays. For media inquiries, please contact Billy Le at (714) 834-2248.

(Orange County, CA) Following popular requests, married couples now have a special way to celebrate their anniversaries as Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen introduces renewal of vow ceremonies, a first in Orange County’s history. Beginning on October 19, 2024, married couples can reaffirm their vows at the Old Orange County Courthouse, the North County branch office in Anaheim, or the South County branch office in Laguna Hills. For a ceremony fee of just $28, couples can enjoy a memorable celebration and receive a complimentary souvenir certificate as a keepsake of the special day.

This service offers a wonderful opportunity for couples to celebrate milestone anniversaries, whether it’s their 5th or 50th, or to share a heartfelt moment with loved ones, including children and grandchildren. At no additional cost, couples can also livestream their ceremony via Zoom, allowing friends and family, regardless of distance, to join the celebration.

Though symbolic with no legal significance, the ceremony offers a meaningful way for couples to reaffirm their commitment. Whether celebrating a milestone anniversary, recreating a ceremony delayed by the pandemic, or simply looking for a unique way to honor their love, this renewal of vow promises an intimate and unforgettable experience.

“Getting married is an incredible milestone, and I believe couples deserve more than one celebration over the years,” said Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen. “I am excited to provide renewal of vow ceremonies for the first time in our department’s history and help married couples add another beautiful and memorable moment to their love story.”

There are no residency restrictions, and couples from anywhere are welcome to participate. To schedule a renewal of vow marriage ceremony at our department’s three beautiful locations, visit OCRecorder.com and click on the “Renewal of Vow Ceremonies for Married Couples” link on the homepage. Walk-ins are always welcome.

For questions, call (714) 834-2500 during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For media inquiries, contact Billy Le at (714) 834-2248.

(Santa Ana, CA) Due to popular demand, Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen is excited to once again partner with the California Secretary of State to host the one-day Apostille Pop-Up Shop. The event will take place at the County Administration South Building on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 601 North Ross St, Santa Ana, CA 92701. No appointments are necessary. Services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

“We served nearly 500 customers during our first one-day Apostille Pop-Up Shop this past May,” said Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen. “I am excited to provide our county residents convenient access to Apostille services on-the-spot without needing travel to Los Angeles or mail their requests to Sacramento through this special partnership with the California Secretary of State.”

What is an Apostille?

• An Apostille is a certificate that authenticates California public officials’ signatures on documents intended for use outside of the United States. 

• Examples of documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, single status certificates, educational records, and more. 

• Typically, individuals seeking in-person Apostille services must travel to the California Secretary of State’s offices in Los Angeles or Sacramento, or they may mail their request to the Sacramento office. 

To ensure a smooth experience, please bring the following:

• A document signed by a California public official or an original notarized and/or certified document. Photocopy is not acceptable. 

• A completed Apostille Pop-Up Shop Request Cover Sheet found at:                        https://notary.cdn.sos.ca.gov/forms/apostille-request-apus.pdf

• California Secretary of State processing fee is $20 for each apostille document, along with a $6 special handling fee for every public official’s authentication signature. Payments for apostille services can be made using Visa, Mastercard, checks, or money orders. No cash accepted.

• Notary public services will be available on-site from the OC Clerk of the Board office for $15 per signature and paid for by personal check or cash only. Make check payable to the County of Orange.

For more information about obtaining an Apostille, visit the California Secretary of State’s website. 

For any questions, please call the department’s information line at (714) 834-2500 during normal business hours Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays. Visit OCRecorder.com for details. For media inquiries, please contact Billy Le at 714-834-2248.