Registering a Birth

You will need to register your child's birth within 42 days of your child being born.  Registering a birth is free.

You will then receive a short birth certificate and a registration card that you will need to complete and take to your local GP surgery. You won't be able to register your child with a doctor without this registration card and you will need the birth certificate for a number of reasons including Child Benefit applications.

Who should register a birth?

It all depends if the parents were married to each other at the time of the birth or conception. If they were, then either the mother or father can register the birth on their own. If they weren't, then who goes to do it will depend on a number of factors. 

If the father's particulars are not recorded in the birth register, it may be possible for the birth to be re-registered to include his details at a later date.

Parentline Plus have a free helpline where you can talk through the options and ask for advice. Call them on Parentline Plus 0808 800 2222 or Textphone 0800 783 6783

Where to register

Chester Register Office

Opening times: 9.00 to 4.30 Monday - Friday. As from 2 January 2003 you will need to make an appointment to register a birth or a death so please telephone in advance to arrange a convenient time. Late night opening is Wednesday until 7 pm, by appointment only, for Notices of marriage. Notices of marriage can also be taken on Saturday by appointment.

Chester Register Office,
Goldsmith House, Goss Street,
Chester, CH1 2BG

Telephone: 01244 602668
Fax: 01244 602934

Email: chesterregisteroffice@cheshire.gov.uk

You can find out more about the Chester Registration Service (external link) by visiting their webpage