Burn, a boyhood Newcastle supporter and former season-ticket holder at St James' Park, takes over the role following Bruno Guimarães's departure this summer.
The 34-year-old led the side out on five occasions last season as part of the club's leadership group and has made 193 appearances since returning to his hometown club from Brighton in January 2022, with head coach Matthias Jaissle confirming the decision on Saturday. Joelinton has been named vice-captain, though he is expected to miss the next two weeks with injury.
"It's an absolute honour to be named captain of Newcastle United," Burn said. "It's always an immense privilege to represent this football club, especially when I have been trusted with the armband on previous occasions, but to lead the team on a permanent basis is going to be really special.
"It's been an incredible journey since I joined the club four-and-a-half years ago — we've achieved some amazing things together and enjoyed some unforgettable moments.
"I believe there's still more to come and I'm relishing the responsibility of pushing everybody every single day to make sure that is the case."
Jaissle explained his reasoning behind the appointment.
"Dan is a natural leader and a perfect fit for the role of Newcastle United captain," he said. "He puts the interests of the team ahead of his own every time he steps onto the pitch and always gives maximum commitment in everything he does. Off the pitch, he leads by example in how he conducts himself. Not many people understand what this club means to the city better than Dan and that experience will be vital in helping guide our younger players through this period of change and adaptation."
Born in nearby Blyth, Burn's route to Newcastle United took in spells at Darlington, Fulham, Yeovil Town, Birmingham City, Wigan Athletic and Brighton before he returned to his boyhood club in 2022.
He scored the opening goal in Newcastle's 2-1 League Cup final win over Liverpool in 2025, the club's first domestic trophy since 1955, and has since earned 11 England caps, including three at this summer's World Cup, capping a remarkable rise from non-league football to international recognition.