Information about birth certificates

What you can learn

What can I find on a full birth certificate?

A full birth certificate will usually give you:

• date and place of birth
• full name and sex of the child
• the mother’s maiden surname
• the informant’s name, address and relationship to the child
• the father’s full name and occupation where recorded
• the place of birth of both parents

Why order one?

A certificate can add a whole new branch.

A birth certificate gives more information about the child and their parents. For example, your grandmother’s certificate may name both of her parents, helping you trace your family back another generation and confirm the family connection.

See an example

Read the information fields on a sample certificate.

The sample shows how the certificate brings together the child, parents, informant and registration details. See the certificate fields in full.

How to order

How do I order a certificate?

Certificates for births registered in England or Wales can be ordered online through the General Register Office. Follow the instructions and provide the necessary GRO index reference.

The full reference usually includes the year, quarter and district, together with a volume and page reference or an entry number for later records. You can find these details by viewing the full record when searching BMD records online.

Events from the last 50 years may require additional information at the application stage.