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South Dakota · How-To Guide

How do I get a copy of a death certificate?

South Dakota Department of Health (SDDOH), Vital Records (state - Pierre) / County Register of Deeds (county level)
Details

What you need to know

Fee
$15 (state office or county); $26.50 total via VitalChek (regular mail)
Processing Time
County in-person: same day; state mail: varies; VitalChek: faster
Online Option
VitalChek only (authorized)
Where to Go
County Register of Deeds in county of death (fastest); SD Vital Records, Pierre; VitalChek
South Dakota Notes

Important state-specific details

  • $15 nonrefundable search fee.
  • Copies cannot be faxed or emailed.
  • Divorce CERTIFICATES (not decrees): ONLY from State Office - cannot use county ROD for divorce certificates. Divorce DECREES: must request from Clerk of Courts in county where divorce was filed.
  • Order multiple copies at once - estates, insurance, banks, SSA, VA each need one.
Official Source

State office contact

State Office
SDDOH Vital Records - doh.sd.gov/vital | (605) 773-4961 | Foss Building, 523 E Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501