Register a baby's birth
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, births must be registered within 42 days.
Time: Within 42 days of the birth
What you need
- At least one form of ID (passport, birth certificate, driving licence, Council Tax bill…)
- Your child's red book (personal child health record), if asked
- Unmarried parents: both attend, or a statutory declaration of parentage
Step by step
- Book an appointment at the register office for the area where the baby was born (or register at the hospital, if offered)
- Go with your ID; married parents can register alone
- Give the details for the register and check them carefully
- Order the birth certificate
Where to apply
GOV.UK: register a birth · gov.uk
Tips to get it right the first time
- If you cannot go to the area of birth, another register office can forward your details.
- If the mother registers alone, the father's details can be added later by re-registration.
Save the checklist in the app and tick items off as you gather them.
Reviewed on October 19, 2026 · source: gov.uk. Requirements and costs are for reference and may change without notice: confirm them with the official source before you go. We are not affiliated with any institution.