Re-register a child following marriage of natural parents

Re-registration is the completion of a new record of birth, which replaces an original registration.

If the natural parents marry after the birth of their child, they are required under the Legitimacy Act 1976 to apply for the re-registration of their child's birth.

It is best to attend the Register Office where the original birth was registered. 

However, you can only do this at the Register Office in England and Wales where the child was originally registered, providing the child was born in England or Wales.  You can made a declaration to any register office providing you have an up to date copy of your child's birth certificate.

Can my child's surname be changed?

You can following your marriage or civil partnership Change your child's surname by deed poll using the Gov.uk deed poll service.

For re-registration after marriage, a re-registration form (LA1) must be completed and signed by both natural parents, but only one of the parents will need to attend the Register Office where the child was originally registered. To access the form please see the www.gov.uk website.

Is there a fee for re-registration?

Re-registration is free of charge.

New certificates are chargeable at £12.50 per certificate

What you need to do

• Make an appointment at the Register Office where the original birth was registered. 
• Complete the re-registration form (LA1)

Remember to bring these documents to your appointment:

• your child's original birth certificate  
• your marriage certificate

The registrar will usually be able to authorise the re-registration, otherwise it must be authorised by the Registrar General.

The registrar will be able to advise on this.

Appointment times are between the hours of 9.00am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday.

Make an appointment