Registering a Birth

Frequently Asked Questions

When must I register a baby's birth?

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

Where do I register a birth?

The Register Office
Bracknell House
Aylesbury Street
Bletchley
Milton Keynes
MK2 2BE
Location map

How do I register a birth?

You can register your baby's birth by appointment only. Please call 01908 372101 and press option 1 between 9.30am and 4.30pm to arrange an appointment with a Registrar.

Who can register my baby's birth?

If you are married at the time of the birth, either you or your husband can register the baby. If you are not married at the time of the birth, the father's details can only be included on the register if one of the following happens: Who can register my baby's birth

Can I register at another register office?

If it is difficult for you to visit our office, you can go to any register office in England or Wales to give the details we need to register the birth, but the birth will not be registered there. When we receive this information from the other register office, we will register the birth. We will then post the birth certificate to you.

Click here for a Printable Application form to apply for a Birth Certificate from another District


What surname should I use?

Normally, you will give the surname of the mother or the father. Once the surname has been registered you can only change it if one of the following applies: What surname should I use

What happens when I see the Registrar?

The Registrar will see you in private and will ask questions about your baby and both parents. What happens when I see the Registrar

What certificates will I get?

You will get a birth certificate which shows:

• the baby's names;
• the baby's date of birth;
• the district baby was born in;
• and whether baby is a boy or a girl.

Do I need extra copies of the birth certificate?

We strongly recommend that you purchase a full birth certificate which includes the parents details as baby will need this to get a passport and job later on.

We provide printed copies only.

What will it cost?

Registering the birth, the short birth certificate and the medical card are free. If you want extra copies of the short certificate or a copy of the full details in the register, there is a fee. The fees are set by Parliament and are regularly reviewed.

Many people buy a full copy of the birth certificate at the time of registration. If you ask for copies later, these will cost more.

Click here to view our fees

What if I cannot speak or understand English?

If English is not your first language and you would like someone to help you register, you can ask a friend or relative to come with you.

Milton Keynes Council also has a language service providing translators.

Community Language Service

Please remember that if registering a birth, one of the baby's parents must be present.

Birth Certificate Request

Apply online for a birth certificate

If you do not have internet access please contact The Registrars Office on 01908 372101 to request an application form.