The summons may be served as in other cases except that such service shall be at least three (3) days before the day of trial, and the return day shall not be later than the day of trial, and it may also be served by leaving a copy thereof with some person over fifteen (15) years of age, residing on the premises, at least three (3) days before the day of trial; or, if service cannot be made by the exercise of reasonable diligence on the tenant or on any person over the age of fifteen (15) years residing on the premises, the same may be served by certified mail with return receipt postmarked at least three (3) days before the date of trial.
§ 1148.5.Service of Summons
Chapter 20: Actions Regarding Real Property · Not amended since adoption on record · Last verified August 3, 2026
In one sentenceSection 1148.5 lets the summons in a forcible entry and detainer case be served on the tenant, on a person over fifteen residing on the premises, or by certified mail if reasonable diligence can't reach either one, so long as service happens at least three days before trial.
Full Text of § 1148.5
Amendment History
Laws 1968, SB 537, c. 172, § 5, eff. 1/13/1969.
Plain-English Summary
Service in these cases follows the general rules but on a compressed timeline: it must happen at least three days before trial, and the return date can't be later than the trial date itself. The summons can be served the usual way, or by leaving a copy with someone over fifteen years old who lives on the premises, again at least three days before trial.
If reasonable diligence can't get the summons served on the tenant or on someone over fifteen living there, certified mail with a return receipt works instead, as long as the receipt is postmarked at least three days before trial.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon before trial must the summons be served?
At least three days before the day of trial, with a return date no later than the trial date.
Can the summons be left with someone other than the tenant?
Yes, with a person over fifteen years old who resides on the premises, at least three days before trial.
What if no one can be found to serve in person?
The summons may be served by certified mail with a return receipt, postmarked at least three days before the trial date, if reasonable diligence can't reach the tenant or a resident over fifteen.
Source & verification. Section text is reproduced verbatim from
Title 12 of the Oklahoma Statutes, enacted by the Oklahoma Legislature.
Last verified August 3, 2026.
· Official source
Also known as: service of summons eviction oklahomathree days before trial service oklahoma12 O.S. § 1148.5certified mail summons forcible detainer