Request a copy birth certificate
Request a copy birth certificate
We can provide copy birth certificates when you need an official replacement or are researching your family tree.
If the birth was not in Gateshead, you will need to apply for the certificate in the district where it took place. You can find the Register Office for that area at www.gov.uk/register-offices (opens new window).
Details required
There are two types of birth certificate, full and short. The details required depend on the type of certificate you need.
Full certificate
This is a full copy of the birth entry and includes particulars of parentage and registration. For this type of certificate, you will need to provide:
- full name of the person named on the certificate
- date of birth for the person named on the certificate
If you are unable to provide this information and would like further advice please contact the Registrars Office.
Short certificate
A short certificate shows only the forename, surname, sex, date of birth and district of birth. This certificate can not be used for legal purposes as a full certificate is required.
For this type of certificate, you will need to provide:
- full name of the person named on the certificate
- date of birth for the person named on the certificate
- mother's maiden name of the person named on the certificate
If you are unable to provide this information and would like further advice please contact the Registrars Office.
Births in Washington
We hold records on births in Washington from before 30 June 1967. If you require a certificate for a birth that occurred in Washington after 30 June 1967, you may need to apply to Sunderland Register Office (opens new window).
Births in Hebburn
We hold records on births in Hebburn from before 31 March 1974. If you require a certificate for a birth that occurred in Hebburn after 31 March 1974, you may need to apply to South Tyneside Register Office. (opens new window).
Adoptions
If you require a certificate for an adopted birth, you will need to speak to a registrar. Please contact the Registrars Office.
Certificate costs
View our fees and charges page for copy certificate costs. Payment is required at the time of requesting the certificate.
Standard service
For standard requests, certificates are normally available for collection or posted out within 15 days, although it may take longer when demand is high.
If you need your certificate for a specific date that is less than 15 working days away, plus an allowance for delivery time, we advise you to use the priority service.
Priority service
For priority requests, the certificate will be available for collection or posted out the next working day. For this service, we must receive your application by 2pm to guarantee next working day postage or collection.
Contact us
Gateshead Council
Civic Centre
Regent Street
Gateshead
NE8 1HH
0191 433 3000