Born in Ireland: nothing to do
When a birth is registered with the General Register Office (GRO), the child is given a PPS number at the same time. You will usually find it on documents sent to you after the registration, such as Child Benefit letters. There is no separate application.
The exception: if the birth is not registered within 180 days, a parent or guardian has to apply for the number.
Born abroad: how to apply
- Make sure you have your own PPS number. One parent or guardian must already have one before applying for the child. If you don't, apply for both of you in the same MyWelfare application. See how to get a PPS number.
- Apply on MyWelfare.ie with a basic MyGovID account. Give the child's details and the reason they need the number, for example starting school.
- Book the appointment in the same application. You choose the centre, date and time. Your child must attend too.
- Bring the documents listed in the MyWelfare notification. The number is posted out after checks.
Documents for a child's PPS number
- Evidence of your relationship to the child: birth certificate, adoption certificate, or court documents naming the parent or guardian and the child
- Evidence of your own identity: passport or driving licence
- Your proof of address (no older than 3 months), if you are applying for yourself at the same time
Paper applications use form REG1M (PPS Number for a child under 18), available on gov.ie.
Where the appointment happens
Only some offices allocate PPS numbers. Check the list of PPS number centres and pick the one easiest for you to reach with your child.
Frequently asked questions
Does my baby get a PPS number automatically?
Yes, if the child was born in the Republic of Ireland and the birth is registered with the General Register Office. You do not need to apply.
What if the birth was not registered within 180 days?
Then a parent or guardian must apply for the PPS number.
My child was born abroad. How do I get a PPS number?
A parent or guardian applies on MyWelfare. The parent must already have a PPS number, and the child must attend the in-person appointment.
Can I apply for myself and my child together?
Yes. MyWelfare lets you apply for yourself and your child in the same application.
What documents do I need for my child's PPS number?
Evidence of your relationship to the child (birth or adoption certificate, or court documents naming you and the child) and evidence of your own identity, such as a passport or driving licence.
Related guides
Get a PPS number (adults)
The full process and document list.
PPS number centres
Where appointments take place, by county.
Sources: gov.ie: Get a PPS Number · MyWelfare: PPS Number. Intreo Offices is independent and not affiliated with the Department of Social Protection. Rates and rules change: confirm on gov.ie or MyWelfare.ie before you act.