Ordering records

This page tells you what to do once you have found records in the National Records of Scotland (NRS) online catalogue.

Do you want to look at or get a copy of a record?

If the catalogue says the record is in National Record of Scotland and is open to researchers, make a note of the full reference number (such as 'GD1/884/49') and go to our Historical Search Room pages find out our location and opening hours, how to get a reader's ticket, how to order records in advance of your visit and how to order copies or make an enquiry about records.

If you want to order a copy, we will inspect the document and provide you with an estimate for copying. Some material is not suitable for copying, and if this is the case, we will explain this in our reply.

Do you want to arrange for someone to look at the document for you?

Our staff do not normally carry out detailed historical or legal research in the records for customers. A number of professional researchers record agents and research companies carry out historical and legal research in our search rooms and peform other services like transcription and translation of records.Please note that National Records of Scotland accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, quality or quantity of the work of professional researchers, record agents and research companies.