How much do death certificates cost in Alabama?
Certified copies from the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) cost $15 for the first copy. Each additional copy ordered at the same time costs $6. Expedited processing adds another $15 to the total order.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| First certified copy | $15 |
| Each additional copy (same order) | $6 |
| Expedited processing | + $15 |
| VitalChek online | State fee + processing/shipping fees |
The $15 search fee is non-refundable, even if no record is found. VitalChek, the authorized online vendor for Alabama, charges its own processing and shipping fees on top of the state fees.
How to order
Through a funeral home (fastest)
Your funeral director orders the first batch as part of their services. This is the simplest and fastest route for recently filed death certificates.
From ADPH (state level)
The Alabama Center for Health Statistics in Montgomery handles death certificate requests for deaths that occurred anywhere in Alabama.
- By mail: Send a completed application with a check or money order payable to "Alabama Vital Records." Include a copy of your photo ID. Cash is not accepted by mail.
- In person: Visit the ADPH office in Montgomery during business hours. Bring a valid photo ID.
- Online or by phone: Place orders through VitalChek, the only authorized third-party vendor. Expect additional processing fees.
From your county health department
County health departments in Alabama may also issue death certificates for deaths that occurred in their jurisdiction. Contact the county health department where the death occurred for local availability and fees.
Processing times
| Method | Typical timeline |
|---|---|
| Funeral home | 2 to 4 weeks |
| ADPH by mail (standard) | 4 to 8 weeks |
| ADPH by mail (expedited) | 2 to 3 weeks |
| ADPH in person | Same day (if record is on file) |
| VitalChek online | 5 to 7 business days + shipping |
In-person orders at the Montgomery office are the fastest option when records are available. Mail orders without expedited processing can take up to two months.
How many copies do you need?
Order at least 8 to 10 certified copies. You will need them for banks, insurance companies, the Social Security Administration, and the probate court. Alabama's low price for additional copies ($6 each) makes it affordable to order extra.
For a complete breakdown, see our guide on how to get death certificates.
Who can order?
Alabama restricts certified death certificates to:
- Spouse, parent, or child of the deceased
- Grandparent, sibling, or grandchild
- The executor or administrator of the estate
- An attorney or legal representative
- A government agency with a legitimate need
- Anyone with a court order
You must provide a valid photo ID and state your relationship to the deceased.
What to know about Alabama specifically
Affordable additional copies. At $6 per additional copy, Alabama is one of the cheaper states for ordering death certificates in bulk. Ten copies cost $69 (one at $15 plus nine at $6 each).
No online ordering directly from the state. ADPH does not accept online orders directly. All online and phone orders go through VitalChek, which adds its own fees. If cost is a concern, ordering by mail or in person from ADPH is cheaper.
Probate Court handles estates. Alabama's Probate Court oversees all estate matters. Small estates with personal property under $36,000 may qualify for a simplified affidavit transfer. You will need at least one certified death certificate to file. See our guide on how probate works in Alabama.
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