How to obtain a death certificate in Washington, D.C.

After a loved one passes away, obtaining a death certificate is one of the most important steps that needs to be taken. This document is crucial for arranging the funeral, carrying out organ donation, executing the will, and other such actions.

The process of obtaining a death certificate varies from state to state and even from county to county. To make the process easier, we have compiled the information you need to obtain a death certificate based on your location.

If your loved one passed away in District of Columbia, you may order their death certificate in person, through mail, by phone, or online. Details for obtaining a death certificate in these different ways are below:

  1. Online: Request a death certificate online by visiting this website and clicking “Remote ordering service provider” to view online ordering options.

  2. By Phone: Contact the DC Health Vital Records Division at 877-572-6332.

  3. By Mail: Download and fill out the state application for a death certificate. You must also include your identification and a money order or check of $18 payable to the VITALCHEK or include your card information in the payment section of the form. Mail this to the following address:

    Department of Health, Vital Records Division

    ATTN: New Applications Dept.

    899 North Capitol St., NE, 1st Floor

    Washington, DC 20002

  4. In Person: Visit the DC Vital Records Office at:

    899 North Capitol Street, NE

    Washington, DC 20002

    Make sure you bring your ID to prove your identity. Check out the FAQ at the bottom of this page to learn more about in-person visits.