How to Get a Death Certificate in Florida

Find state specific ordering options, fees and requirements.

For a death that occurred in Florida, request certified copies through the official Florida vital records office—by mail, in person, or online when offered. Prepare the application, payment, and any required identification. Access to newer records may be restricted; confirm eligibility on the state site.

Florida Death Certificate Fees

Costs from the Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics.

Item Cost
First certified copy (published fee) $5.00

$5 state search/first copy; $4 extra copies; $10 rush; $1 handling. State VitalChek route adds rush and vendor fees. County fees vary.

Official fee schedule

How to order an Florida death certificate

Online

Use the official online ordering route when available. VitalChek online or phone; state mail or walk-in; county offices. Order Online.

In person

Visit the local or state vital records office listed on the official site. Where to Order in Person.

By mail

Mail a completed application, acceptable ID, and payment to the address on the official application. How to Order by Mail.

Who can request a copy?

  • Anyone age 18 or older may request a copy without cause of death. Confidential copies require qualifying relatives, documented estate interest, authorized representation or court order.

Access restrictions

Cause of death is confidential for 50 years; full Social Security number has separate restrictions.

Official Death Certificate Information

What to prepare before ordering

Person and record details

  • Completed application or permitted written request; deceased person’s identifying details; applicant contact details; fee; ID and entitlement evidence described above. Use the current official form.

Identification

Photo ID and eligibility evidence for confidential copies; authorized third parties need the required affidavit and ID copies.

Processing times

State mail requests for 2009 onward: normally 3–5 business days excluding shipping; earlier records take longer.

Processing time source

How many certified copies might families need?

Many families order 10–15 certified copies because banks, insurers, retirement plans, and government offices often require an original certified copy rather than a photocopy. Ordering several at once is usually less expensive than reordering later.

Florida Death Certificate FAQs

How much does a Florida death certificate cost?
The state mail/walk-in search and first copy; county/online totals differ is $5. Additional same-record copies are $4 when ordered together. See the fee notes for method-specific charges.
Can I order a Florida death certificate online?
Use the online ordering route linked by the official agency. Available methods: VitalChek online or phone; state mail or walk-in; county offices.
Who can request a certified copy in Florida?
Anyone age 18 or older may request a copy without cause of death. Confidential copies require qualifying relatives, documented estate interest, authorized representation or court order.
How long does a Florida request take?
State mail requests for 2009 onward: normally 3–5 business days excluding shipping; earlier records take longer.
Can I get a copy in person in Florida?
Use only the office or pickup service listed in the ordering instructions. VitalChek online or phone; state mail or walk-in; county offices.
What if the death occurred outside Florida?
Request the record from the jurisdiction where the death occurred. The person’s residence does not determine which state issues it.

Official Sources

Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics

Fees, eligibility, and ordering requirements may change. Confirm current details with the issuing agency before submitting your request.

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We use cookies to operate this website, improve usability and personalize your experience. Your privacy is important to us, and we will never sell your data. Privacy Policy.