Vital records document life events such as birth, death, marriage,and divorce. To order records online, you’ll need to have a valid ID, complete an online application,and pay a fee.
Find vital record services and information
Our state agencies can help you get the vital records you need.
Vital record request and change permissions
Only you, your immediate family members, and certain individuals with legal authority can request your vital records.
Birth certificates
A birth certificate is a certified copy of a birth record.Order a copy by: Providing valid identification, Filling out an application, and Paying a fee.
Death certificates
Order a copy of a death certificate by providing a valid ID, filling out an application online, by mail or in-person, and paying a fee.
Verification letters
A verification letter indicates if a birth or death is on file in Texas. The record, if available, will include the name, date of birth or death, and county of birth or death.
ID requirements
Many forms of ID qualify for ordering vital records.
Payments
Payment methods vary based on order request (online, by mail or in-person). Acceptable forms of payment include: Check or cashier's check, Money order, and Credit or debit card.
Record changes
Asking to correct or change a record requires certain documentation.
Delayed birth certificate registration
If a birth happened in Texas and it wasn’t registered within the first year, you can ask for a delayed birth certificate.
Vital record request and change permissions
Birth certificates
Death certificates
Verification letters
ID requirements
Payments
Record changes
Delayed birth certificate registration
Learn how our agencies can help you
Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)
- Birth and death certificates and verifications
- Marriage and divorce verifications
- Disinterment permits and heirloom certificates
