People registering a birth will need to provide proof of their identity when new national registration rules come into force next month.

The changes are being introduced as part of wider reforms to the way birth and death records are maintained in England and Wales. They amend the registration process set out under the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 and related regulations.

From 9 November, people registering a birth will be asked to provide proof of their identity when attending their appointment. Where a birth is being registered jointly, both parents must provide their own proof of identity. The registration cannot be completed unless the required identification is produced.

For most people, this will mean bringing one form of photo identification, such as a passport or photocard driving licence. Anyone who does not have photo ID will still be able to register a birth by providing two alternative forms of identification. A full list of accepted documents is available on the Council website.

Another change means people registering a birth will no longer sign a paper register. Instead, they will be asked to confirm that the information they have provided is true and accurate before the registration is completed. The information will then be recorded electronically.

Births must still be registered within 42 days, and appointments will continue to take place at local register offices.

Councillor Hardyal Dhindsa, Cabinet Member for Finance, Governance and Digital said:

These are national changes, but the experience for most people registering a birth in Derby will remain much the same. Our team will continue to guide families through the process and provide support at our registration service based at Riverside Chambers. Registering a birth is an important moment for families, and we want the process to be as straightforward as possible.

“We want people to be aware of the changes before they attend their appointment so they can bring the right documents with them.”

The changes are intended to improve the accuracy and security of birth records while supporting a move to a modern digital registration system. Birth and death records will be maintained electronically rather than through the traditional paper register system.

For all information on registering births, visit our website or ask Darcie on 01332 640000