Does California recognize holographic (handwritten) wills?

What the Law Says

California law explicitly permits holographic wills under specific conditions. Unlike formal wills, they do not require witnesses — but strict handwriting requirements apply.

A holographic will is a will that is entirely handwritten and signed by the person making it (the 'testator'). In California, it is valid even without witnesses, as long as two key elements are met: (1) the material provisions — meaning the parts that direct how property is distributed — and (2) the signature must both be in the testator’s own handwriting.

The law also requires the testator to be at least 18 years old and of sound mind when writing the will. While dates are not strictly required for validity, including a date helps prove the will is the most recent one if multiple versions exist.

Statutory Text

A holographic will is valid if the signature and the material provisions are in the handwriting of the testator.

— Probate Code § 6111 — Holographic will

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