How much do death certificates cost in North Carolina?
Costs differ depending on where you order:
| Source | First copy | Additional copies |
|---|---|---|
| NC Vital Records (state) | $24 | $15 each |
| County Register of Deeds | Usually $10 | $10 each |
The county Register of Deeds is significantly cheaper. If you are ordering in person or by mail, the county option saves money — especially when ordering multiple copies.
State-level orders include expedited service for an additional $15 and same-day walk-in service for another $15 on top of that.
How to order
Through a funeral home (fastest)
Your funeral director orders the first batch. This is the simplest option and avoids deciding between state and county sources.
From the County Register of Deeds
Each county has a Register of Deeds office that issues death certificates for deaths that occurred in that county. You can order:
- In person: Visit the Register of Deeds office with a valid photo ID. Same-day service is common.
- By mail: Send a written request with payment and a copy of your ID.
- Online: Some counties offer online ordering through Permitium or similar vendors, with a convenience fee.
From NC Vital Records (state level)
For deaths registered statewide, you can contact NC Vital Records (part of NC DHHS):
- By mail: Send a completed application with a certified check or money order for $24.
- In person: Walk-in service is available at the Raleigh office. There is a $15 fee for same-day processing.
- Online: Available through VitalChek.
Processing times
| Method | Typical timeline |
|---|---|
| Funeral home | 2 to 4 weeks |
| County Register of Deeds (in person) | Same day |
| NC Vital Records (mail) | 4 to 8 weeks |
| NC Vital Records (walk-in, +$15) | Same day |
| Online (VitalChek) | 2 to 4 weeks |
Who can order?
North Carolina restricts certified copies to:
- Spouse or domestic partner
- Parent, child, or sibling
- The executor or administrator of the estate
- An attorney or legal representative
- Anyone with a court order or demonstrated legal interest
You must provide a valid photo ID and state your relationship to the deceased.
What to know about North Carolina specifically
Go to the county first. The Register of Deeds in the county where the death occurred is usually faster and cheaper than the state office. For recent deaths, same-day service is common.
The Clerk of Superior Court connection. In North Carolina, the Clerk of Superior Court handles probate. You will need certified death certificates for any probate filing. The Clerk's office and the Register of Deeds are typically in the same courthouse, which makes logistics easier.
Fees are non-refundable. Both the state and county offices charge search fees that are not refunded even if the record is not found.
For a broader overview of the death certificate process, see our guide on how to get death certificates. If you are handling probate, see our guide on how probate works in North Carolina.
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