Can a person eligible to receive a certified copy of a vital record designate someone to collect the certified copies for them?

An individual who has filed a complete application for a copy of a vital record can authorize another person to pick up the record on his or her behalf. To do so, the applicant should sign a notarized letter, stating the name of the person listed on the vital record and the name of the individual who is picking up the record. The individual picking up the record must present this letter along with their own acceptable identification.

Documentary Proof

You must establish your relationship to the subject of a vital record, pursuant to regulations established by the New Jersey State Registrar and Governor’s Executive Order, to obtain a vital record. You must show documentation, in addition to your photo drivers license. This chart explains who is eligible and the documentary proof to establish that eligibility. Please bring certified copies with a raised seal.

PersonDocuments That Must Be Presented
Child

Your birth certificate with your parents' names showing

If married, your marriage license, to address the name change

Grand-Child

Your birth certificate with parents' names showing your parents’ birth/death certificates with their parents (your grandparents) names 

If married, your marriage license, to show change of your name

Step-Child
Not entitled
Current SpouseYour marriage license
Ex-Spouse
Not entitled unless you are obtaining it on behalf of a minor child. In that case, you must show the minor child's birth certificate with the parents' names showing.

If married, your marriage license, to show change of your name

Executor of the Estate  

Valid Surrogates Certificate with an original signature and seal
Sibling
Your birth certificate with parents names

If married, your marriage license, to show change of your name

Show All Answers

1. How do I identify a record?
2. How do I obtain a vital record?
3. Can a person eligible to receive a certified copy of a vital record designate someone to collect the certified copies for them?
4. Can I obtain a certified copy of a death certificate if I am not related to the deceased individual but I have joint ownership of property or stocks/bonds?
5. Can vital records be faxed?
6. Who can request a certified copy of a vital record? (pursuant to State of New Jersey Executive Order Number 18)
7. Can I call the Registrar’s Office to verify they have a vital record I am looking for?
8. Where do I obtain a certified copy of a birth, marriage license, civil union or death certificate?
9. If I am listed as a beneficiary on a life insurance policy but am not related to the deceased individual, can I obtain a certified copy of the death certificate to claim my benefits?
10. Does an attorney have access to vital records?
11. Do stepparents have the same access to records as parents?
12. Does an ex-spouse have access to the previous spouse's birth or death certificate?
13. What is required to obtain a certified copy of a vital record?