How can I apply for a copy of a historical record?

By law we are only able to release details from the register in the form of a copy certificate.  This is produced at the statutory fee (please refer to current fees).  When you apply you will need to provide us with sufficient information in order for us to find a historical record.  Please supply as much information as you can and if possible a telephone number in case we need to check details with you.

As a guide please provide us with the name of the person whose certificate you need (both names for a marriage certificate), the date of the event and the place.  For birth certificates the parents' names and the mother's maiden name are needed.

You can apply by post or in person to our office at Hanley Town Hall, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 1QQ.  If you wish to apply in person we will normally be able to issue your certificate within 15 minutes.  That is, providing we are able to locate the record using the information you give us.  We may ask you to leave your application (including your fee) with us if it's likely to take us some time to find.  You can pay for your certificate by cash or cheque (with a valid cheque guarantee card).

If you apply by post you will need to send us sufficient details in your letter for us to find the correct record.  We will normally be able to deal with your request within three working days although some family history requests may take longer.

Please send us a letter or application form available from our Register Office together with your cheque or postal order and a stamped addressed envelope.  Your cheque or postal order should be made payable to the 'Superintendent Register'.  If applying from outside the United Kingdom please enclose two international reply coupons or add postage of £1 to your fee.  Please note that your fee will be returned if we can't trace your record.

Certificates may be issued to anyone who is able to give us the full personal details of the person whose certificate is needed.  No proof of identity is needed.

If you can quote a General Register Office/St Catherine's index reference this indicates an entry in the register has been made.  However, please be aware that this index reference does not help us to locate the record at Stoke-on-Trent Register Office.