You must register your baby within 42 days of the date of the birth.

If your baby was born in York it can be registered at:

York Register Office
56 Bootham
York
YO30 7DA
tel: (01904) 654477

We have included the frequently asked questions below to help you but please feel free to contact us if you need further help or advice.

Do I need an appointment?

Yes, York Register Office runs an appointment system.

To make an appointment for 56 Bootham tel:(01904) 654477 between 8.30am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday.

What if I arrive without an appointment?

If you arrive at the office without an appointment, you may have a long wait and unfortunately we cannot guarantee to see you on the same day.

How long will it take?

It takes about 30 minutes to register a birth (depending on how busy we are).

If it is more convenient you can go to any Register Office in England and Wales and register the birth by declaration. Birth certificates will be sent to you by post.

How much will it cost?

You will be given a short certificate free of charge but you can buy a full version with parents details and birth certificate folders are also available. The full certificate costs £3.50 and is needed for a passport application.

Who can register?

If the parents of the baby were married to each other when the baby was born either of them can register the birth. They don't both need to attend.

If the parents were not married to each other when the baby was born the father's details can be entered if:

• Both parents attend to register the birth.
• Where the father is unable to attend with the mother, it is possible to make a statutory declaration acknowledging his paternity which the mother should produce to the registrar. This form is available from any registrar in England and Wales. The father’s signature must be witnessed by a solicitor or a Justice of the Peace.
• Where the mother is unable to attend with the father, it is possible to make a statutory declaration acknowledging her maternity which the father should produce to the registrar. This form is available from any registrar in England and Wales. The mother’s signature must be witnessed by a solicitor or a Justice of the Peace.
• When the parents have made a parental responsibility agreement or have obtained an appropriate court order. This should be shown to the Registrar and either parent can register the birth.

Adding the father’s details to the Register gives him parental rights and responsibilities.

What information will I need to bring?

About the baby

• The date and place of the baby's birth. If there are twins, triplets etc. You will be asked for the time of each baby's birth.
• Whether the baby is a boy or girl.
• The first names and family name (surname). The baby may have any family name but remember you may not be able to change it on the birth certificate if circumstances change in the future.

About the mother

• Her forenames and family name. Her maiden name will also be required if this is different.
• Her date and place of birth.
• Her usual address at the date of the birth.
• Her occupation (optional).
• If she is married to the baby's father at the time of the birth, the date of the marriage.
• The number of children she has.

About the father

If his details are to be entered on the register:

• His forenames and family name (surname).
• His date and place of birth.
• His occupation at the time of the baby's birth or his last or usual occupation if he was not employed at that time.

If English is not your first language

If English is not your first language and you would like someone to help you with the registration, please feel free to ask a relative or friend to come with you to the Registrar's Office. Remember you must register the birth personally and cannot ask someone to do this for you. The government Language Line service can help you with translation. Contact them on tel: (020) 7520 1430.

If you need further information or would like advice or help please contact us.