Birth or Death Certificates/Records

You can get a birth or death certificate only if you have tangible interest. Some birth records are confidential and can only be obtained by certain people.

A birth certificate can typically be used as identification for purposes of applying for things like a passport, proof of citizenship, social security, driver's license, and school registration. 

A death certificate can typically be used to obtain death benefits, claim insurance proceeds, or to notify social security.

Uncertified copies of both birth and death records are also available, but are for information only and are not accepted for legal purposes. 

Birth certificate application (PDF 65kb)

Death certificate application (PDF 99kb)

How to apply

Choose an option below to begin your application process.

• Option 1: Complete (except for signatures) the appropriate (birth (PDF 65kb) or death (PDF 99kb) certificate application and print it.
  • Submit it in person/walk-in, by appointment, by mail or by FAX.
• Option 2: Start your application, pay online, print your application and submit it by FAX.
  • There is an additional $7 service fee charged by VitalCheck.
  • Pay by American Express®, Discover®, MasterCard® or Visa®.

Cost

• In person payment options
• Fees are non-refundable, as per Minnesota Statutes, section 144.226

Additional information

• Certified copies can generally be issued at time of application. **
• Due to limited data availability, sometimes uncertified copies can't be processed while you wait and will have to be mailed to you.
• Before you purchase an uncertified copy, make sure an uncertified copy is acceptable for your needs.

** Copies applied for at the University of MN location will be mailed.