How much do death certificates cost in Idaho?
Certified copies from the Idaho Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics cost $16 each. Health district offices charge similar fees but may vary slightly.
| Source | Cost per copy |
|---|---|
| Bureau of Vital Records (state) | $16 per copy |
| Health district offices | $16 (may vary) |
| VitalChek (online) | $16 + $12 to $15 processing fee |
The fee is charged per copy regardless of whether records are found.
How to order
Through a funeral home (fastest for new deaths)
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 the Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics
The state office in Boise handles death certificates for deaths that occurred anywhere in Idaho.
- Online: Order through VitalChek. Orders typically arrive in 2 to 3 weeks.
- By mail: Send a completed application with a check or money order payable to "Idaho Bureau of Vital Records." Include a copy of your ID. Mail orders take 4 to 6 weeks.
- In person: Visit the Bureau's office in Boise. Same-day service may be available for records on file.
From your local health district
Idaho is divided into 7 public health districts, each covering multiple counties. Many district offices can issue death certificates for deaths that occurred within their area. Check with your local health district for availability and fees.
Processing times
| Method | Typical timeline |
|---|---|
| Funeral home | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Health district (in person) | Same day to 5 business days |
| VitalChek (online) | 2 to 3 weeks |
| Bureau of Vital Records (mail) | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Bureau of Vital Records (in person) | Same day |
Health district offices can be a faster alternative to the state office for in-person requests if you are not near Boise.
How many copies do you need?
Order at least 8 to 10 certified copies. You will need one for each bank, insurance company, retirement account, and government agency you contact. Some institutions keep the copy you submit.
For a complete breakdown of where you will need certified copies, see our guide on how to get death certificates.
Who can order?
Idaho restricts certified death certificates to:
- Spouse or domestic partner
- Parent, child, or sibling of the deceased
- Grandparent or grandchild
- The executor or personal representative of the estate
- A legal guardian or attorney acting on behalf of the family
- Anyone with a court order
You must provide a valid government-issued photo ID and state your relationship to the deceased when ordering.
What to know about Idaho specifically
Community property state. Idaho is one of nine community property states. This affects how marital property is handled during estate administration. Surviving spouses generally retain their half of community property without it going through probate.
Health district system. Instead of county-level vital records offices, Idaho uses 7 regional health districts that each cover multiple counties. This means your local option may be in a neighboring county's seat rather than your own.
Uniform Probate Code state. Idaho has adopted the Uniform Probate Code, which offers streamlined options for smaller estates. Personal property under $100,000 may qualify for transfer by affidavit. Probate is handled through the District Court (Magistrate Division). See our guide on how probate works in Idaho for details.
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