How much is a death certificate in Texas?

The first certified copy is $20, and additional copies ordered at the same time are $3 each (same order). Third-party online vendors add a service fee.

How many death certificates do I need?

Most families order 10 or more certified copies. Each bank, insurer, brokerage, and government agency typically wants its own certified original, not a photocopy, so it's better to over-order than to wait for more later.

Who can order a death certificate?

Usually the next of kin, the executor, or someone with a documented legal or financial interest. The funeral home can order certified copies on the family's behalf when it files the death certificate.

Death certificate · Texas

How to get a death certificate in Texas

In Texas, certified death certificates are issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Vital Statistics. The first certified copy costs $20, with additional copies at $3 each (same order). Order online through Texas.gov, by mail to DSHS Vital Statistics in Austin, or in person. The funeral home can also order copies for you.

Last verified July 2, 2026 · Sources: Texas DSHS — Death Records, Texas DSHS — Costs & Fees

Where to order: Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Vital Statistics — official site
Cost: $20 first copy; $3 each (same order).
How to order: Order online through Texas.gov, by mail to DSHS Vital Statistics in Austin, or in person. The funeral home can also order copies for you.
Good to know: Expedited service is an extra $25. Local registrars and county clerks may also issue copies.

Who can order one in Texas

For deaths within the past 25 years, only immediate family members can order a certified copy. Anyone else must document a direct legal interest — a court order, or an insurance policy naming them as beneficiary. After 25 years the record becomes generally accessible. Bring or copy a valid photo ID with any application.

Ordering channels and speed

Online through the Texas.gov portal is the fastest route. Walk-in orders at local vital-records offices or DSHS in Austin are often issued the same day. Mail orders use application form VS-142; expedited handling is an extra $25 plus $16 for overnight return shipping. Fees are non-refundable even if no record is found.

Certified copy vs. death verification

Texas also issues a cheaper 'death verification' ($20) that confirms a record exists — name, date, and county only. Verifications are not legal substitutes for certified copies, so for insurance, banks, and probate you need the certified copy.

Fixing an error on a Texas death certificate

Corrections use form VS-172 (Death Certificate Correction Application), mailed with original signatures and supporting documents. The correction fee is $15, plus $20 for the first certified copy of the corrected record; expedited processing is available.

Common questions about death certificates in Texas

How much is a death certificate in Texas?: The first certified copy is $20, and additional copies ordered at the same time are $3 each (same order). Third-party online vendors add a service fee.
How many death certificates do I need?: Most families order 10 or more certified copies. Each bank, insurer, brokerage, and government agency typically wants its own certified original, not a photocopy, so it's better to over-order than to wait for more later.
Who can order a death certificate?: Usually the next of kin, the executor, or someone with a documented legal or financial interest. The funeral home can order certified copies on the family's behalf when it files the death certificate.

What to do when someone dies in Texas Full checklist

General guidance, not legal advice. Fees and procedures change — confirm with the Texas vital-records office.