SANTA FE, NM – Today, the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics announces the launch today of a new, lower-cost option for New Mexicans to order birth and death certificates online or over the phone using a debit or credit card. The new service is available through an authorized third-party vendor called VitalChek.

"This is an important step in making government more effective and efficient," said Governor Susana Martinez. "This change will save taxpayer dollars and streamline our records services across the state, helping New Mexicans in communities large and small get the help they need."

Residents wishing to obtain a certified copy of birth or death certificates can continue to visit any of the more than 20 Vital Records offices across New Mexico; however, the new VitalChek service may be of particular benefit for rural New Mexicans.

"This new, lower-cost option for ordering birth and death certificates will be convenient for New Mexicans, allowing them to obtain a certificate from their own homes," said Department of Health Cabinet Secretary Lynn Gallagher. "Ordering a certificate online or by phone will also greatly reduce the wait time for receiving a certificate compared to mail-order options."

While Vital Records has offered online or phone ordering in the past, customers will now have options for lower-cost shipping. Customers will continue to receive expedited processing via VitalChek in three to five business days. Costs for processing and shipping birth and death certificates via U. S. Mail delivery are now $26.00 for a birth certificate and $21.00 for a death certificate. Prior cost for mail delivery was $45.00.

Customers are encouraged to order certificates by calling the toll free VitalChek number 1-877-284-0963 or by accessing the VitalChek website at www.vitalchek.com.

To get your birth certificate, you'll need to provide several required documents to prove your identity and age, these requirements are listed here.

Birth certificates are only issued to the applicant, immediate family members, or those who represent tangible proof of legal interest. Additionally, Vital Records only issues certificates for individuals born within the state of New Mexico.

For more information, visit the New Mexico Vital Records and Health Statistics website.