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Register A Birth

How to Register a Birth in England and Wales (Step-by-Step Guide)

Last updated: October 2025
Reviewed by the RegistryOffice.uk editorial team

Overview

In England and Wales, it is a legal requirement to register a baby’s birth within 42 days (six weeks) of the date of birth. Registration takes place at a local register office and creates an official record on the General Register Office’s (GRO) system.

This guide explains who needs to register a birth, what documents you’ll need, how to book an appointment, and what happens during registration.

Important: RegistryOffice.uk is an independent information website and is not affiliated with the UK Government or the General Register Office. Always confirm details with your local register office or visit the official GOV.UK birth registration page.

1. When You Must Register a Birth

Under law, every birth in England and Wales must be registered within 42 days (six weeks) of the baby’s birth. You should register in the district where the baby was born.

If it’s difficult to travel to that district, you may register by declaration at another register office. The details are then sent to the office where the birth occurred, and the certificate is issued from there.

2. Who Can Register a Birth

The following people can usually register a birth in England or Wales:

  • Either parent, if they were married or in a civil partnership at the time of the birth
  • The mother, if the parents are not married or in a civil partnership
  • The father or second parent, if they attend with the mother or if legal proof of parentage is provided

If the parents are not married or in a civil partnership, and the father cannot attend, his details can only be added later through a formal re-registration process.

3. Information and Documents You’ll Need

When attending the appointment, bring:

  • Baby’s date and place of birth
  • Baby’s full name (as agreed by both parents, if applicable)
  • Parents’ full names, occupations, and addresses
  • Parents’ birth certificates or passports as proof of identity
  • Marriage or civil partnership certificate (if applicable)

The baby does not need to be present for the appointment.

4. Where to Register a Birth

You must attend a local register office in person to register a birth in England or Wales.

Use the official government directory to find contact details and book an appointment:
👉 Find your nearest register office on GOV.UK

You can also browse our Registry Offices Directory for local contact numbers and opening times.

5. What Happens at the Appointment

  1. The registrar reviews your documents and confirms the information to be entered into the birth register.
  2. You check the entry carefully and sign to confirm its accuracy.
  3. The registrar issues a short birth certificate (usually free).
  4. You may order additional full birth certificates for a small fee.

Appointments typically take around 20 minutes.

6. Ordering Extra Birth Certificates

You can order additional or replacement certificates later through:

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the 42-day registration deadline
  • Spelling errors in the baby’s name (check carefully before signing)
  • Forgetting required identification or documentation
  • Assuming hospitals automatically register births (they don’t)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register my baby’s birth online in England or Wales?

No — registration must be completed in person at a register office. Some offices allow you to make or change appointments online.

How long do I have to register a birth?

You must register within 42 days (six weeks) of the date of birth.

What does it cost to register a birth?

Registration itself is free. Additional full birth certificates typically cost £11 each in England and Wales.

Can someone else register on my behalf?

Only in exceptional circumstances and usually with written authorisation — contact your local register office for advice.

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