To get a certificate, you’ll usually need to prove your identity. For many of our services, you may be able to prove your identity online with Service Victoria.
Certificates where Service Victoria is not available
Early pregnancy loss – Learn more about Early pregnancy loss commemorative certificates.
Recognised details certificate – Learn more about getting a recognised details certificate.
Family history – Learn more about Do I need to prove my identity?
Proving your identity online is the fastest way to complete your application. Births Deaths and Marriages can't control who will be verified, as this is done by an external provider.
There are other ways to prove your identity.
Can I prove my identity online?
To prove your identity online you'll need two identity documents. One must have a photo.
The best combination is a passport and driver licence.
How it works
You'll need a smartphone to prove your identity online, even if you start your application on a computer.
It doesn't matter what brand as long as it is less than about 5 years old. You must be able to take a picture of yourself and upload it.
Step 1: Apply for a product
Start by applying for a certificate or registration. Proving your identity online with Service Victoria is available for the following products:
Certificates
- Birth certificate
- Change of name certificate
- Death certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Relationship certificate
- Single status certificate
Registrations
- Change a name of a person born in Victoria
- Change a record of sex
- Relationship registration
- Relationship revocation
When you fill in your details, you’ll be asked for your phone number. We’ll text you a link to start when you provide it.
Step 2: Take a photo of your first identity document
When prompted, take a photo of your first identity document using your phone. Your first identity document must be one of the following:
- Australian passport (current or expired less than 3 years)
- Current foreign passport (with linked visa)
- Australian birth certificate
- ImmiCard
- Australian citizenship certificate.
Step 3: Scan your face
We’ll match your face to your photo ID. We don’t save this.
Step 4: Take a photo of your second identity document
Your second identity document must be a:
- Current Australian driver licence
- Medicare card (only if you don't have a driver's licence).
If the names on your documents don’t match
If the names on your documents don’t match, you’ll also need to show a:
- Change of name certificate, or
- Marriage certificate.
The certificate must be issued by a Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in Australia. Documents must be in good condition. Damaged or worn-out documents won't work.
Help video
Related information
Can't see an option to prove your identity online?
Privacy and security for online proof of identity (External link)
Do I need to prove my identity?