Adult Deed Poll: Legal Name Change UK
If you want to legally change your name in the UK and are aged 16 or over, you can do so immediately using a Change of Name Deed (Adult Deed Poll).
Requirements for an Adult Deed Poll
To execute a valid Adult Deed Poll, you must:
- Be at least 16 years of age.
- Have the mental capacity to understand the consequences of changing your name.
- Not be changing your name for a fraudulent or illegal purpose.
The Signing Process (Execution)
Your Deed Poll is only legally binding once it is properly executed. This means you must sign it in the presence of an independent witness.
Who can be a witness?
Your witness must be:
- An adult (18 years or older).
- Independent (not a family member or partner).
- Living at a different address to you.
Good examples of witnesses include friends, colleagues, or neighbours. They simply need to watch you sign the document with both your old name and your new name, and then add their own signature, name, address, and occupation.
Updating Your Records
Once your Deed Poll is signed and witnessed, you can begin notifying organisations of your new name. We recommend starting with:
- HM Passport Office: Apply for a new passport in your new name.
- DVLA: Update your driving licence (this is usually free of charge).
- Your Bank: Take your Deed Poll to your local branch to update your accounts and cards.
- HMRC & Your Employer: Update your tax records and payroll information.