What is the Birth Certificate Registration Number in India?

In India, a birth certificate is an essential document that officially records a child's birth. The registration number on the birth certificate ranks high among the necessary details contained in this document. This unique identifier confirms an individual's birth and plays a significant role in many legal and administrative processes. 

Let’s learn the meaning, importance, and practical aspects of obtaining and using birth certificate registration numbers.

A birth certificate registration number is a unique alphanumeric number assigned to each birth registered with the registrar. This number is used as an identifier for tracking and maintaining the records. It enables the authorities to maintain systematic and proper records of births. 

According to the law, in India, every birth is supposed to be registered within a specified period, usually within 21 days. At that time, the registration number is issued. The registration process is guided by the Registration of Births and Deaths Act of 1969, which mandates that every birth be registered with the local municipal authority or the registrar.

The registration number on birth certificate carries immense significance for various reasons:

Legal Document

ID Proof

Census and Statistics

Genealogical Research

The number is useful in family history and genealogical research as it can trace lineage and other ancestry.

Anti-Fraud Aims

You may want to find your birth registration number at one point or another for various legal and administrative purposes. Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Once you have a copy of your birth certificate, open the document and look for the "Registration Number" or "Registration ID." It is usually printed in large letters either at the top or bottom of the certificate.

Step 2: The registration number will typically consist of a combination of alphabets and numbers. It may also include the year of registration.

Step 3: In some cases, the registration number will be shown along with the official seal or stamp issued by the registrar’s office.

Step 4: If you cannot find the registration number or do not have a copy of your birth certificate, you can request it directly from the registrar's office. Identify the local authority that registered your birth (municipal corporation or local registrar).

Step 5: Gather required documents, such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID, and proof of birth (preferably a hospital discharge summary).

Step 6: Obtain and fill out the application form with accurate information, including your name, date of birth, place of birth, and your parents' names.

Step 7: Submit the completed application form to the registrar's office either in person or online, depending on the available submission process.

Step 8: Pay any applicable fees for retrieving the registration number or obtaining a duplicate birth certificate.

Step 9: Inquire about the processing time and follow up with the registrar’s office if you have not received a response within the specified timeframe.

Once processed, you will receive a letter containing your birth certificate or a document with your registration number. 

School Admission

Issuance of ID Papers

Legal Use

Health

Travel and Immigration

Registration Number Not Provided

The most common issue is the birth certificate's lack of a registration number. This may result in situations where the birth is not registered properly or the birth certificate is missing.

Parents or guardians can request a copy of the birth certificate at the local vital records office or the concerned government department. Satisfactory identification and proof of the child's birth shall safeguard the registration number on the birth certificate.

Misplaced Registration Number

Sometimes, the registration number of the birth certificate contains a typo or misplaced information. This often needs to be clarified for the related legal matters or identity verification. To rectify the same, individuals must contact the issuing authority and present valid documentation to establish their correct details. 

The process may require completing the correction application and other supporting documents to update the birth certificate's registration number accurately.

Unavailability of Registration Number

Many need help pointing out the birth registration number on the birth certificate, as different jurisdictions differ in the format. If you cannot point out the number clearly, refer to the issuing office for help, as they can help locate the registration number for you.

They can also issue a new birth certificate with relevant details highlighted for easy use in such cases.

Late Registration at Birth

Sometimes, birth registration is done late, even after the expected period. This can impact the process of applying for documents that include a registration number on a birth certificate. 

In such a situation, the solution would be for parents to process late registration at the local government's civil registry. This would involve a completely filled-out form, proof of birth, and possibly an affidavit of some witnesses to confirm the child's birth details.

Differences in Number Registration Format

The differences in the registration number format on birth certificates cause problems in official processes, such as acquiring a passport, admission to school, etc., because the various states or countries have unique formats.

A victim of such an experience should consult with the particular institution requesting the certificate. They may also need to provide further documents or get confirmation from the local registrar regarding the correct number format.