In the United Kingdom, a birth certificate reference number (BCRN) is a distinct identification number. A birth certificate reference number is assigned to a person’s birth certificate.
A birth certificate reference number is a combination of numbers and letters.
These numbers identify and locate a particular birth certificate record in the national birth database. This database is governed and maintained by the General Register Office.
The birth certificate reference number is included in the hard copy of the certificate, in the digital form of the birth certificate, and the certified copies provided by the GRO.
A birth certificate reference number is very much essential for various purposes throughout a person’s life. So, if you want to know more about getting the birth certificate reference number, just be with me.
Here, in this article, I will provide the purpose of a birth certificate reference number, the importance of a birth certificate reference number, how to obtain a birth certificate reference number from the General Register Office in the UK, and the uses of the reference number.
Continue reading this article till the end!
Purpose of Birth Certificate Reference number
- The birth certificate reference number is a unique number associated with a person’s birth certificate. So, when a person presents his/her document, the number confirms that the person is the same as mentioned on the certificate.
- The BCRN can prevent fraud and theft events.
- The BCRN prevents unauthorized access to personal information.
- The number protects an individual from his/her Identity.
The Importance Of a Birth Certificate Reference Number
- The birth certificate reference number is very much essential because it will be required for various purposes throughout your life.
- When applying for a passport, being admitted to school, or providing legal employment purposes, the birth certificate reference number is essential.
- The number is also essential for genealogical research and tracing your family history.
- Without a birth certificate reference number, accessing personal information will be impossible or difficult.
- So, if you do not have the number, you may face a lot of problems throughout your life.
- So, you can now understand that it is essential to keep the BCRN safe and secure like other crucial documents.
How to Obtain A Birth Certificate Reference Number from the General Register Office
To get the birth certificate reference number from the General Register Office, you need to follow the below steps. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: You can visit the GRO Website
There is an online search facility, so you can search for the GRO website on the internet. You can locate birth, marriage, and death records from that website. So, you can visit the website and search for birth records online.
Step 2: You can request a certified copy of the birth certificate
If you have already located the birth record on the GRO website, you can apply for a certified copy. This certified copy includes the birth certificate reference number.
Step 3: Wait for Delivery
After that, the GRO will process your request for the certified copy. After processing, the authority will deliver the certified copy to your concerned address. This may take a few days depending upon the delivery method you choose.
If you already have a hard copy of the birth certificate, then the reference number should be listed on the top right corner of the birth certificate. Or, if you have missed the certificate, or missing it, you need to contact the GRO for assistance.
It is very crucial to keep the BCRN safe and secure. It is as essential as your other personal identification documents. It will be required of you throughout your lifetime.
The Uses of Birth Certificate Reference Number
The birth certificate reference number has several uses throughout your lifetime. Here, I will provide some of the main uses of the number:
- Providing Identity: The birth certificate reference number is used to prove an individual’s identity for various purposes. The purposes include applying for a passport, enrolling in school, opening a bank account, and so on.
- Legal purposes: The birth certificate reference number is used for various legal purposes. These include applying for a marriage license, obtaining a copy of a will, and so on.
- Genealogy research: The birth certificate reference number is used for genealogy research. It includes tracing the family history and ancestry the reference number is required.
- Government Services: The BCRN is used to access government services and benefits. These include registering to vote, applying for a National Insurance Number, and more.
- Record-Keeping: The BCRN is used by the General Register Office to keep tracking birth certificate records. It also ensures the accuracy and security of an individual’s personal information.
FAQ
How do I find my birth certificate reference number in the UK?
Ans: If you have the physical copy of the birth certificate then you can find the reference number on the top right corner of the certificate. The BCRN is a combination of digits and letters. The number can be listed as a “Registration number.
What is a birth certificate reference number?
Ans: A birth certificate reference number is very crucial and safe. It is a separate identifier assigned to an individual’s birth certificate. You will require the birth certificate reference number throughout your life such as enrolling in school, opening a bank account, applying for a passport, and more. However, you must keep in mind that this number is distinct from the National Insurance Number.
Conclusion
A birth certificate reference number is very essential and you will require it throughout your lifetime. This reference number is a unique identifier mentioned in the birth record. The BCRN is crucial, and it helps track and maintain secure personal information.
Well, in this article, I have provided all the details regarding discovering your UK birth certificate reference easily. So, you just go through my guide and act accordingly. Hope, you will easily obtain your birth certificate reference number.
