public death records florida: how to find, request, and understand access

What to know

Florida death certificates are filed locally and compiled by the state Bureau of Vital Statistics. Most searches begin at the state level, while county health departments handle recent events and corrections. Cause-of-death on newer records is restricted; older records and indexes are broadly accessible through archives. Processing times and fees vary by office, record year, and search complexity.

Request steps

Decide whether you need an informational copy or a certified record for legal use. Gather the decedent’s full name, date and place of death, and any known parent details. Expect ID and proof of relationship when requesting restricted details.

1. Search the statewide index, then confirm the county.
2. Choose informational or certified copy.
3. Prepare ID and supporting documents if required.
4. Submit the application with fees by mail, online, or in person.
5. Verify names, dates, and spellings on receipt.