How long do I have to register a birth?

42 days in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and 21 days in Scotland.

Can unmarried parents both be on the birth certificate?

Yes, usually by registering together. There are other options if you can't attend together. Ask your register office.

Short answer: register within 42 days in England and Wales (21 days in Scotland). Book an appointment at your local register office.

Book an appointment with the register office in the area where your baby was born. Some hospitals let you register before you go home.
Go with the right person: if you're married or in a civil partnership, either parent can register. If not, usually both parents need to go together for both names to be on the certificate.
Take any ID or documents the register office asks for when you book.

Read everything above? Here's the official page to do it:

Want the exact dates for your baby? Get your personal timeline: enter your due date or birthday and see every deadline in order.

Sources: GOV.UK: register a birth. Checked 28 October 2026.