Who is allowed to order a copy

Not every relative qualifies. Bring ID. If you are the executor, bring the paper that says so.

Typical eligible requestors

Rules differ by state, but the pattern is stable: surviving spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, or a legal representative (executor, administrator, attorney-in-fact, funeral director). Some states add “direct and tangible interest,” which means you can show why you need it: a lien, an insurance policy, a title.

What to bring

A government photo ID. Proof of relationship if your name is not on the record (a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or letters testamentary). If you are ordering for an estate, the court paper beats a sad email.

If you are not next of kin

A funeral director can often order the first batch. An attorney of record can order. A genealogist usually cannot get a recent certified copy. Do not pay a random website that promises “anyone can order” a certified copy of a restricted record. You will get a rejection or a useless printout.