Deed Poll UK: Change Your Name Legally

What is a Deed Poll?

A Deed Poll (also known as a "Change of Name Deed") is a legal document used in England and Wales to formally change your name. The document is a binding declaration in which you renounce your old name and commit to using your new name for all purposes. Once you have signed the Deed Poll in the presence of a witness, it becomes a legally valid proof of your name change.

There is no central register of name changes in England and Wales. Instead, you simply use the signed Deed Poll as evidence when updating your records with organisations such as HM Passport Office, the DVLA, your bank, HMRC, and others.

Enrolled vs. Unenrolled Deed Polls

There are two types of Deed Poll in the UK:

• Unenrolled Deed Poll — The most common type, used by over 99% of people. It is not registered with any court and your name change remains private. It is accepted by all UK government departments and banks.
• Enrolled Deed Poll — Registered with the Royal Courts of Justice and published in The London Gazette. This places your old and new names on public record. It is rarely necessary and is more expensive (currently £42.44 via HMCTS).

We recommend an Unenrolled Deed Poll for almost everyone. It is cheaper, faster, private, and just as legally valid as an enrolled version. The only scenarios where enrollment may be required are for certain immigration applications or if specifically requested by a foreign government.

Who Can Change Their Name by Deed Poll?

Anyone aged 16 or over who is a resident of England or Wales can change their name by Deed Poll, provided they have the mental capacity to understand the consequences and are not changing their name for fraudulent purposes.

For children under 16, a parent or legal guardian with Parental Responsibility can apply on their behalf. If there are multiple people with Parental Responsibility (e.g., both parents), all must consent to the name change.

How Our Deed Poll Service Works

1. Fill in a short form — Enter your current name, new name, date of birth, and address.
2. Pay securely — One-time payment of £14.99. No subscriptions or hidden fees.
3. Download instantly — Your professionally formatted Deed Poll PDF is ready to download and print immediately.
4. Sign and witness — Print the document, sign it in the presence of an independent adult witness, and start using your new name.

What You Can Change

You can use a Deed Poll to change any part of your name:

• Your first name (forename)
• Your middle name(s)
• Your surname (family name)
• Your title (e.g., Mr to Ms)
• Add, remove, or rearrange any combination of names

Which Organisations Accept a Deed Poll?

All major UK organisations accept a properly executed Unenrolled Deed Poll, including:

• HM Passport Office
• DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency)
• HMRC (HM Revenue & Customs)
• All UK high street and online banks
• NHS and GP surgeries
• The Electoral Register
• Utility companies
• Universities and schools

Common Reasons for Changing Your Name

• Name change after marriage
• Name change after divorce
• Gender transition
• Personal preference — you simply don't like your current name
• Cultural or religious reasons
• Returning to a maiden name

Frequently Asked Questions