Change of Name Deed - Change Your Name by Deed Poll
- 18 hours ago
- 11 min read
Whether you want to change your name after marriage, divorce, transition, or simply because you've chosen a new identity, a change of name deed, commonly known as a deed poll, is the simplest, fastest, and most legally recognised way to do it in the UK.
At the UK Deed Poll Agency, we've helped thousands of people legally change their name by deed poll and you could be next, in just a few minutes without the need of a solicitor or requirment to register.
This complete guide covers everything you need to know: what a change of name deed is, how to change your name by deed, why an unenrolled deed poll is the right choice for most people, and how to apply through our trusted deed poll service today.
Ready to change your name right now?
CONTENTS:
What Is a Change of Name Deed?
A change of name deed — formally called a deed poll — is a legal document you sign to officially declare that you are abandoning your previous name and adopting a new one. It is the standard UK method to change your name and is accepted by all major organisations: HM Passport Office, the DVLA, HMRC, banks, employers, NHS, schools, and more.
The term "deed poll" comes from old legal language — "deed" meaning a formal legal document, and "poll" referring to the straight, polled edge of the parchment (as opposed to the jagged edge of an indenture). Today, the term simply refers to your legal proof of name change.
Important: You do not need a solicitor, a court order, or government approval to legally change your name in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland. A correctly executed deed poll is sufficient under common law.
Unenrolled Deed Poll vs. Enrolled Deed Poll: Which Should You Choose?
When you apply for a deed poll, you have two options. Understanding the difference is important before you apply.
Unenrolled Deed Poll
An unenrolled deed poll is a private legal document. It is NOT placed on the public record. This is the option chosen by the vast majority of people changing their name — and it is the only type of deed poll we issue at the UK Deed Poll Agency.
Benefits of an unenrolled deed poll:
• Completely private — your name change is not published anywhere
• Fully legally valid and accepted by all UK organisations
• Faster and more affordable than enrolled alternatives
• No court involvement required
• Ideal for personal reasons including gender transition, marriage, divorce, or personal preference
Enrolled Deed Poll
An enrolled deed poll is registered in the Supreme Court and placed on public record — meaning anyone can search for and find details of your name change. This is rarely necessary and suits only a small number of situations.
At the UK Deed Poll Agency, we only provide unenrolled deed polls — keeping your name change 100% private and confidential.
Apply for your private, legal unenrolled deed poll:
Who Can Apply for a Change of Name Deed?
In the UK, most people can legally change their name by deed poll. Here is a quick overview:
Adults (Age 16 and Over)
Anyone aged 16 or over can apply for a deed poll in their own name without parental consent. Our adult deed poll service is available to UK residents and non-UK residents alike.
Children (Under 16)
Children under 16 cannot apply on their own. All persons with parental responsibility must agree to and sign the deed poll. Our separate child deed poll service guides you through this process simply and clearly.
Non-UK Residents
You do not have to be a UK resident to obtain a UK deed poll. However, if you intend to use the deed poll internationally, some countries may require additional legalisation steps. We recommend seeking country-specific legal advice if needed.
What Names Can You Choose?
When you change your name by deed, you have a great deal of freedom. You can:
• Change your first name, middle name(s), or surname
• Add or remove names
• Change the spelling of your current name
• Choose an entirely new full name
• Change your title (e.g. from Mrs to Ms)
• Hyphenate or combine surnames
There are only a small number of restrictions. Your new name must not:
• Be offensive or contain profanity
• Include numbers, symbols, or punctuation (with limited exceptions)
• Be chosen with the intent to commit fraud or deceive
How to Change Your Name by Deed Poll: Step-by-Step
Changing your name is a straightforward process. Here is exactly how it works when you use our deed poll service:
Step 1: Complete Our Secure Online Application
Visit our website and fill in our quick, secure registration form. You will need to provide your current full name, your chosen new name, your date of birth, and contact details. No ID documents are required at this stage.
Step 2: Choose Your Delivery Method
We offer two delivery options: same-day email delivery (receive your deed poll instantly as a secure PDF) or postal delivery (a hard copy sent to your address within a few days). Both options are available for just £27.65 with no hidden fees.
Step 3: Sign and Witness Your Deed Poll
Once you receive your deed poll, you must sign it in the presence of an independent adult witness. Your witness must:
• Be 18 years of age or over
• Not be a relative
• Not be your partner or spouse
• Not live at the same address as you
Your witness will also sign the deed poll. Once signed and witnessed, your deed poll becomes a legally valid document.
Step 4: Send Your Deed Poll to Your Record Holders
You can now use your deed poll to update your name on all official records. Present the original, wet-signed deed poll to each record holder. Common updates include:
• UK passport (via HM Passport Office)
• Driving licence (via the DVLA)
• Bank accounts and credit cards
• HMRC and tax records
• NHS, GP, and medical records
• Employer HR records
• Electoral roll
• Utility bills and insurance
Note: Record holders will not accept photocopies. They require an original, wet-signed deed poll. If you need multiple originals, we can supply as many as you need.
Ready to begin? Apply in minutes:
Why Use the UK Deed Poll Agency?
There are a number of ways to obtain a deed poll in the UK — including writing your own. But using a trusted, specialist deed poll service like ours ensures your document is correctly drafted, legally valid, and accepted by all organisations without question.
Legally Valid and UK Government Accepted
All deed polls issued by the UK Deed Poll Agency are fully legally valid and accepted throughout England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This includes acceptance by HM Passport Office, the DVLA, HMRC, all major banks, and thousands of other organisations.
Fast, Secure, and Affordable
Our deed poll service costs just £27.65 — no hidden charges, no solicitor fees, no court costs. Apply online in minutes and receive your document the same day.
100% Private — Unenrolled Deed Poll Only
We only issue unenrolled deed polls. Your name change stays completely private and is never placed on public record.
Trusted by Thousands Across the UK
We have helped thousands of people across the UK legally change their name. Our secure, encrypted service protects your personal data and complies fully with GDPR regulations.
Lifetime Support
Every applicant receives lifetime priority support. If you ever have a question about your deed poll — now or years from now — our team is here to help.
Replacement Deed Polls Available
Lost or damaged your deed poll? We can issue a replacement deed poll quickly and easily. You don't need to go through the full name change process again.
Reasons People Change Their Name by Deed Poll
There is no single reason people choose to apply for a change of name deed. People from all walks of life use this process. Common reasons include:
• Marriage or civil partnership — taking a partner's surname or creating a double-barrelled name
• Divorce or separation — reverting to a maiden name or choosing a completely new name
• Gender transition — adopting a name that reflects your true identity
• Dislike of your current name — whether first, middle, or last
• Cultural or religious reasons — adopting a name with personal significance
• Correction of errors — fixing a misspelling or official error on records
• Adoption — taking the name of adoptive parents
• Immigration — anglicising a name or taking a UK name
Whatever your reason, the process is exactly the same, and you are under no obligation to explain yourself to anyone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Change of Name Deeds
Is a deed poll legally binding in the UK?
Yes. A correctly executed deed poll is legally binding under UK common law and must be accepted by all organisations as proof of your name change.
Do I need a solicitor to get a deed poll?
No. You do not need a solicitor. You can apply directly through our online deed poll service in a matter of minutes.
How long does a deed poll last?
A deed poll is valid indefinitely once it has been correctly signed and witnessed. There is no expiry date.
Can I change my name more than once?
Yes. There is no legal limit on how many times you can change your name. Each time you do, you simply apply for a new deed poll.
Can I change my child's name?
Yes. Children under 16 can have their name changed by deed poll, provided all people with parental responsibility agree. Visit our child deed poll page for full details.
What if I lose my deed poll?
If you lose your deed poll, you can apply for a replacement through our replacement deed poll service. We keep records of all deed polls we issue, making replacement fast and straightforward.
How much does a deed poll cost?
Our deed poll service costs just £27.65. This includes email or postal delivery. Optional add-ons such as additional original copies, agency certification letters, and lifetime storage are available at a small extra cost.
Is a deed poll a certificate?
No, a deed poll is not a certificate in the sense of like a marriage certificate, a deed poll is a legal document like a will or an agreement.
What is a change of name deed and how does it work?
A change of name deed is a legal way to confirm your intention to change a name. A deed poll is a legal method, and a poll is a legal document that proves your intent to take on a new legal name.
How do I change your name by deed in the UK?
To change your name by deed, you can use a deed poll service or arrange it yourself. The process is straightforward, and most people choose an unenrolled deed poll as it’s quick and doesn’t place your details on a public record.
Do I need a solicitor or can I do it myself?
You don’t need a solicitor to complete a deed poll to change your name. Many people use an agency for convenience, but it’s perfectly valid to do it yourself as long as the document meets legal requirements.
What is the difference between an unenrolled deed poll and an enrolled deed?
An unenrolled deed poll is private and commonly used, while an enrolled deed or enrolled deed poll is registered on a public record. Most people prefer the private option unless there’s a specific reason to enrol it.
When do I need a deed poll?
You may need a deed poll when you want to change a name, whether it’s your forename or surname, following marriage or civil partnership, or simply personal choice.
How do I start using my new name?
Once your deed poll is signed and witnessed, you can start using and using your new name straight away. You’ll then update your passport and driving licence, banks, and other organisations.
What proof of your new name will I need?
Your deed poll acts as proof of your new name. You may also be asked for supporting documentation such as a utility bill, council tax statement, or your civil partnership certificate if applicable.
Can I change a child’s name?
Yes, you can change a child’s name, but all parties with parental responsibility must agree. The process differs slightly depending on the age of the child and whether they are an adult or child under 16 years.
Do I need a witness for my deed poll?
Yes, a witness is required to make your deed poll valid. The witness must be independent and not related to the applicant.
Do I need to use official forms?
You don’t always have to use official forms, especially for an unenrolled deed poll. However, the wording must still meet legal standards in England and Wales.
How do I update my passport and driving licence?
You can update your british passport and inform the dvla once you have your deed poll. This allows you to use your new name for official identification.
Are there any restrictions on changing your name?
There are some restriction rules—you cannot choose a name for fraudulent purposes or that could cause offence. Otherwise, the process is generally very flexible.
What if I need additional certification?
In some cases, you may need to certify copies of your deed poll. This can be done by a notary public or other authorised authority, depending on the organisation requesting it.
Can I arrange everything online?
Yes, many people choose to arrange their name change through an online deed poll service, which provides step-by-step guidance and ensures everything is completed correctly.
Will changing my name affect my citizenship?
No, changing your name does not affect your citizenship. It simply updates your legal name across your records.
After You Apply: Updating Your Records
Once you have your signed deed poll, the name change process continues as you work through updating all your official records. The order in which you do this matters — here is the recommended sequence:
1. Passport first — The HMPO requires a deed poll as your primary proof of name change. Updating your passport first gives you strong photographic ID in your new name.
2. Driving licence — Submit to the DVLA. You will need to send your deed poll and current licence.
3. Banks and financial institutions — Each bank has its own process. Most will ask you to visit a branch with your original deed poll.
4. HMRC — Update your name for tax, National Insurance, and state pension records.
5. NHS / GP records — Contact your GP surgery and any NHS services directly.
6. Employer — Notify your HR department with your deed poll.
7. Other records — Electoral roll, utilities, insurance, pension providers, professional memberships, and more.
Tip: Order multiple original deed poll copies upfront if you anticipate needing to send them to several organisations simultaneously. You can request additional copies when you apply.
Apply for Your Change of Name Deed Today
Changing your name by deed poll has never been simpler. The UK Deed Poll Agency provides fast, legal, affordable unenrolled deed polls accepted by all UK organisations. For just £27.65, you can have your change of name deed delivered to your inbox the same day or posted to your door within days.
No solicitors. No court fees. No hassle. Just a simple, secure online application and a legally valid deed poll that gets your name change done right.
Apply online now and change your name today:
Questions?
Call us on 0333 339 1980 or email support@deedpollagency.co.uk.
We're here to help.
