What we need from you
1. Details of the person named on the certificate
At minimum, you'll be asked for:
- Given name
- Family name
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Name of the mother
- Name of the second parent (if applicable)
- Reason for application.
If you've been previously married and are divorced or widowed, we'll also ask for:
- A certified copy of your divorce certificate; or
- A certified copy of your spouse's death certificate.
If your spouse passed away in Victoria, you don't need to provide a copy of the death certificate.
2. Proof of your identity
You may be able to prove your identity online. If not, you can still prove your identity by uploading documents or by post.
Acceptable documents
One of the easiest ways to prove your identity is by presenting your driver licence (if it confirms your residential address) and your Passport.
![Example driver licence](https://files.bdm.vic.gov.au/styles/thumbnail/s3/2021-06/BDM_Licence_0.jpg?itok=9XIdt-OH)
![An Australian passport](https://files.bdm.vic.gov.au/styles/thumbnail/s3/2021-06/BDM_Passport_scaled2.jpg?itok=-JvvWx_a)
Alternatively, there are other ways to prove your identity.
3. Proof that you're eligible to get the certificate
If you're applying for your own certificate, you only need to provide proof of your identity.
If you're applying for someone else's certificate, you also need to provide:
- Third-party authority form or letter from the person on the certificate authorising you to access their record. This includes the authorising person’s:
- Address
- Daytime telephone number
- Signature.
- Proof of identity of the authorising person.
Timeframes and delivery
How long will it take?
Check our certificate turnaround times.
If it's urgent, apply online then contact us.
Fees and payment
The fees are non-refundable except as set out on our Refunds page.
Certificate fees
Type of certificate | Purpose | Price |
---|---|---|
Legal certificate | Accepted as an official single status certificate. | $55.80 |
Postage fees are additional.
Postage fees
Postage within Australia
Type of certificate | Postage and handling method | Price |
---|---|---|
Legal certificate | Express post | $10.20 |
Postage outside Australia
Type of certificate | Postage and handling method | Price |
---|---|---|
Legal certificate | International express | $55.50 |
See Australia Post (External link) for product details
Check the Payment methods (External link) we accept.