How To Legally Change Your Name by Deed Poll in the UK
- UK Deed Poll Agency
- Oct 13
- 14 min read
Updated: Nov 9
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Changing your name is a significant personal decision. Whether you're getting married or divorced, transitioning, or simply want a fresh start, understanding how to legally change your name through a deed poll is essential. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about the name change process in the UK, from creating your deed poll document to updating your official records.
What is a Deed Poll and Why Would You Need One?
A deed poll is a legal document that proves you've changed your name. It's the most common method to legally change your name in the UK, and it's simpler than many people think. You'll need a deed poll whenever you want to formally change any part of your name and have it recognized by government bodies, banks, and other official organizations.
Unlike some countries, the UK doesn't require you to go through lengthy court proceedings to change your name. A properly executed deed poll is sufficient proof of your name change for all purposes. It's a legally binding declaration where you formally abandon your old name and commit to using your new name exclusively.
Common Reasons People Change Their Name
Understanding why people choose to change their name can help you feel more confident about your own decision:
Marriage or Civil Partnership - Around 80% of women in the UK change their surname when they get married, though you can also use a marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate as evidence of your new name without needing a separate deed poll. However, many couples today are getting creative with their surnames, and a deed poll gives you the flexibility to create entirely new surnames together.
Divorce and Separation - After a relationship ends, many people want to revert to their maiden name or choose something entirely different. Whether you're married or divorced, a deed poll offers a clean break and fresh start.
Gender Transition - For transgender and non-binary individuals, selecting a name that reflects their true identity is a crucial step. Research indicates that up to 50% of transgender individuals change their name during their transition, and the deed poll process provides dignified, straightforward legal recognition.
Personal Preference - Sometimes your birth name simply doesn't feel right. Perhaps it's difficult to pronounce, has negative associations, or doesn't reflect who you've become. You have the right to change your first name, middle name, or surname for any personal reason.
Cultural or Religious Identity - Many people choose to adopt names that honor their heritage, reflect their faith, or connect them to their ancestral roots.
Professional Branding - Some professionals, particularly artists, writers, and performers, adopt stage names that they later want to use officially.
Understanding UK Deed Poll: Enrolled vs Unenrolled
When you apply for a deed poll, you have two main options: enrolled and unenrolled deed polls.
Unenrolled Deed Poll
An unenrolled deed poll is the most popular choice for most people. It's a private document that proves your name change without being registered on a public record.
This option is:
Quicker and simpler to obtain
More affordable (you can even get a free deed poll by creating your own)
Completely private—your details aren't published
Accepted by all UK organizations, including the passport office and DVLA
Enrolled Deed Poll
An enrolled deed poll is registered with the Royal Courts of Justice and becomes part of public records. This option:
Costs more (currently around £47 plus any deed poll service fees)
Takes longer to process
Becomes publicly searchable—anyone can find your name change details
Is required in rare specific circumstances, such as certain legal proceedings
For most people, an unenrolled deed poll is entirely sufficient and offers better privacy protection.
How to Legally Change Your Name: Step-by-Step Process
The process of changing your name by deed poll is straightforward when you know the steps. Here's exactly what you need to do:
Step 1: Decide on Your New Name
First, carefully choose the name you want to change to. While UK law gives you significant freedom, there are some restrictions:
You cannot choose names intended for fraudulent purposes
Offensive or vulgar names aren't permitted
You can't use titles you haven't earned (like Dr, Lord, or Sir)
Numbers and symbols typically aren't allowed
Names that could mislead people about your status are prohibited
Take time with this decision. Think about how your new name will appear on your passport, driving license, and other official documents. Consider the professional implications and how people will pronounce it.
Step 2: Determine If You Need Additional Permissions
For Adults (16 and over): If you're a British citizen or resident in the UK, you can change your name freely without anyone else's permission.
If You're Under 16: Changing a child's name requires consent from all individuals with parental responsibility. Both parents must agree unless one parent has sole parental responsibility, or a court order is in place. The process of changing your child's name requires careful consideration of their wellbeing and future.
Scottish Residents: While the process is similar across the UK, Scottish courts handle certain aspects differently, particularly for children's names. Specific regulations apply to changing your child's name in Scotland.
Step 3: Create Your Deed Poll Document
You have several options for creating a deed poll:
Option 1: Free Deed Poll (DIY) You can legally create your own deed poll without paying anyone. Your document must include:
Your current name in full
Your new name in full
A statement declaring you're abandoning your old name
A declaration that you'll use the new name exclusively
A commitment to require others to use the new name when addressing you
Your signature
The signature of an independent witness (18 or older, not a family member)
Option 2: Use a Deed Poll Service A UK deed poll service provides professionally formatted documents and often includes additional copies and guidance. Typical costs range from £10-£40. These services handle the formatting and ensure your document meets all legal requirements.
Option 3: Through a Solicitor or Notary For added legal certainty, you can have a solicitor or notary public prepare your deed poll. This costs more (typically £50-£200) but provides professional oversight. A notary can also provide certified copies of your documents, which some organizations prefer.
Step 4: Sign Your Deed Poll Document Correctly
This is crucial for your deed poll to be valid:
Sign in your current name - Use the signature you currently use on official documents
Sign in your new name - Practice your new signature beforehand
Have your witness sign - Your witness must be 18 or over, not related to you, and not living at your address
Date the document - Use the date you're signing, as this is when your name change becomes effective
Many people make mistakes at this stage, so take your time and ensure everything is correct.
Step 5: Get Multiple Certified Copies
Most organizations will want to see an original deed poll or certified copies. You'll need multiple copies because:
Some organizations keep the documents you send
You may need to update several records simultaneously
Having backup copies protects you if the original deed gets lost
A notary public or solicitor can provide certified copies that many official bodies prefer over standard photocopies. You should obtain 5-10 certified copies to avoid delays.
Using Your New Name: Updating Your Official Records
Once you receive your deed poll, the real work begins—updating all your records. Here's how to approach this systematically:
Priority One: Government Organizations
Start with government bodies, as these documents will be needed to update other records:
HM Passport Office: Use the deed poll to apply for a new passport in your new name. You can apply online or by post. Include your original deed poll (which they'll return) or a certified copy. Processing typically takes 3-10 weeks.
DVLA: Update your driving license and vehicle registration documents. The DVLA accepts deed polls and will update their records free of charge. You can change your name online at the DVLA website or by post.
National Insurance and Tax Records: Contact HMRC to update your name on tax records and your National Insurance number. Use their online deed poll application form or call their helpline.
Electoral Register: Notify your local council to update their records and ensure you can vote under your new name.
Priority Two: Financial Institutions
Banks and financial institutions need to know about your name change to prevent fraud concerns:
Banks and Building Societies: Each bank has its own process, but most require you to visit a branch with your deed poll document and proof of identity. They'll update their records and issue new cards in your new name. Update your name with all accounts, including savings accounts, mortgages, and loans.
Credit Card Companies: Contact each provider separately to update your name on credit cards. This helps maintain your credit history under your new name.
Credit Reference Agencies: Notify Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion to link your old name and current name in their records. This preserves your credit history.
Priority Three: Other Essential Organizations
Healthcare: Register your name change with your GP surgery and dentist. Update your NHS records to ensure prescriptions and appointments use the new name correctly.
Employer: Provide your HR department with evidence of your new name for payroll, pension records, and employment contracts.
Utility Companies: Update your name with gas, electricity, water, internet, and phone providers. This ensures bills come in your new name.
Insurance Providers: Notify all insurance companies (home, car, life, health) to update their records and policy documents.
Educational Institutions: If you're studying, update your name with universities or colleges. Request that qualifications you're working toward use the new name.
Professional Bodies: Update registrations with professional organizations, licensing bodies, and membership associations.
Passport for Travel: If you've recently changed your name and have upcoming travel, prioritize getting your new passport. Many countries require your ticket name to match your passport exactly.
Using Your New Name Consistently
From the moment you sign your deed poll, you should use the new name exclusively in all contexts. This includes:
Social media profiles
Email addresses
Professional communications
Medical appointments
Booking travel
Signing documents
Consistency is important both legally and practically. Use the deed poll whenever an organization asks for proof of your name change.
How Long Does It Take to Change Your Name?
The timeline for a complete name change varies, but here's what to expect:
Creating a Deed Poll: If you use a deed poll service, you typically receive your deed poll documents within 24-48 hours with express options. Creating a free deed poll yourself takes as long as you need to draft and sign it—potentially the same day.
Online Application Processing: When you apply for a deed poll online, most services process orders within one business day.
Updating Individual Organizations: Each organization processes name changes at different speeds:
Banks: Often immediate or within 1-2 weeks for new cards
DVLA: 3 weeks for a new driving license
Passport Office: 3-10 weeks depending on the time of year
Utilities: Usually 2-4 weeks
Plan for the complete process of updating all records to take 2-3 months. Start with the most important documents first and work your way down your list.
Do You Need a Deed Poll Office or Official Registration?
This is a common source of confusion. The truth is: there is no official "Deed Poll Office" in the UK government. Several commercial companies use variations of this name (like "UK Deed Poll Office"), but they're private businesses providing a deed poll service, not government agencies.
You don't need to apply for a deed poll through any specific organization. You can:
Create your own free deed poll following the legal requirements
Use any reputable deed poll service for a professional document
Have a solicitor prepare one for you
All properly executed deed polls are equally valid in the eyes of the law. The document itself matters, not who prepared it.
What If You Want to Change Part of Your Name?
You don't have to change your entire name. A deed poll allows you to:
Change your first name only
Change your surname only
Change your middle name(s)
Add additional names
Remove names
Rearrange the order of your names
Change any part or all of your name
If you want to change your first name but keep your surname, the process is exactly the same. Simply state clearly in your deed poll which parts you're changing and which you're keeping.
Special Circumstances: Marriage, Divorce, and Name Changes
Changing Your Name After Marriage
When you get married, you have several options:
Take your spouse's surname
Keep your own surname
Both partners create a new surname together (requires deed polls for both)
Hyphenate your surnames
Have your spouse take your surname
If you simply want to take your spouse's surname after marriage or civil partnership, you can often use your marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate as evidence of your new name rather than getting a deed poll. However, some organizations (particularly foreign institutions or certain banks) may still request a deed poll for clarity.
If you want to create a completely new surname together, both partners will need deed polls, as a marriage certificate only covers taking your spouse's existing surname.
Changing Your Name After Divorce
Following divorce, you might want to:
Revert to your maiden name
Choose an entirely new name
Keep your married name (which is your legal right)
If you took your spouse's name using only a marriage certificate (not a deed poll), reverting to your maiden name after divorce can be complex. Many organizations will accept your divorce decree and birth certificate together, but a deed poll provides clearer proof and is often easier for updating all your records.
Whether you're married or divorced, a deed poll gives you complete flexibility to choose the name that's right for you now.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Change Your Name by Deed Poll
Learning from others' mistakes can save you time and frustration:
1. Not Getting Enough Copies: Organizations often keep the documents you send. Order sufficient certified copies from the start (at least 5-10).
2. Incorrect Witness: Your witness must be 18+, unrelated to you, and not living at your address. Using a family member invalidates your deed poll.
3. Not Using the New Name Consistently: From the moment you sign your deed poll, you must use your new name exclusively. Don't alternate between names.
4. Poor Quality Photocopies: If you're not using certified copies, ensure any photocopy is clear, complete, and includes all signatures. Poor copies may be rejected.
5. Not Checking Organization Requirements: Before sending your deed poll, check each organization's specific requirements. Some want originals, others accept certified copies, and some accept clear photocopies.
6. Forgetting About Online Accounts: Remember to update your name officially with digital services like PayPal, Amazon, airlines' frequent flyer programs, and subscription services.
7. Not Updating Your Child's Name Everywhere: If you're changing your child's name, remember their school records, doctor, dentist, and any clubs or activities.
8. Choosing a Name You Haven't Tested: Before making it official, try introducing yourself with your new name to see how it feels. Once you've used the deed poll to update official records, changing again requires another deed poll.
What Happens If You Lose Your Deed Poll?
If you lose your original deed poll or certified copies, don't panic:
If You Used a Commercial Service: Contact the deed poll service you used. Most keep records and can provide replacement copies for a small fee.
If You Created Your Own: You'll need to create a new deed poll document. Include a note explaining that this replaces a lost original and include the date of the original deed poll if known.
If You've Already Updated Most Records: Once most official bodies have your new name recorded, you may only need your deed poll occasionally. Keep digital copies (scanned or photographed) in secure cloud storage as backup evidence of your new name.
Can Non-UK Citizens Use Deed Polls?
If you're not a British citizen, you can still change your name by deed poll if you're a resident in the UK. However:
Check whether your home country will recognize the name change
Some countries require you to change your name through their legal system
Your UK passport (if you have one) can be updated
You may need additional documentation for your home country's records
If you have dual citizenship, research both countries' requirements before proceeding.
Tax and Legal Implications of Changing Your Name
Changing your name via deed poll doesn't erase your legal identity or history. You remain the same person in the eyes of the law:
Financial Obligations: Debts, contracts, and legal responsibilities remain attached to you regardless of name changes. You cannot use a name change to avoid debts or legal proceedings—attempting to do so is illegal and considered fraudulent purposes.
Credit History: Your credit history follows you. Notify credit reference agencies to link your names so you maintain your credit profile.
Criminal Records: Criminal records remain attached to your identity. Background checks will still reveal your history regardless of name changes.
Employment Records: Your employment history, qualifications, and professional registrations need updating but remain part of your record.
Transparency: When required by law (such as on legal documents or background checks), you must disclose previous names used. Failing to do so when legally required can have serious consequences.
The purpose of a deed poll is to change your name officially for legitimate reasons, not to conceal your identity or history.
How Much Does It Cost to Change Your Name by Deed Poll?
The cost to change your name depends on which route you choose:
Free Deed Poll: £0 - You can create a legally valid deed poll yourself at no cost. You just need paper, a printer, and a witness.
Online Deed Poll Services: £10-£40 - Commercial services provide professional formatting, often include multiple copies, and deliver quickly. This is the most popular option for convenience.
Solicitor or Notary: £50-£200 - Professional legal services cost more but provide expert oversight and certified copies that some organizations prefer.
Enrolled Deed Poll: £47 court fee plus service fees - Only necessary in specific circumstances and makes your name change public record.
Additional Costs:
Certified copies: £5-£15 each from a solicitor or notary
New passport: £88.50 (adult renewal) online
New driving license: Free from DVLA
Postage and photocopying: £10-£20 for sending documents
Total realistic cost: £100-£250 for most people when including all documents and updating services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do organizations have to accept my deed poll? Yes. All UK organizations, government bodies, and official bodies must accept a properly executed deed poll as legal proof of name change. If an organization refuses, escalate the matter to a supervisor or regulatory body.
Can I change my name more than once?Yes, you can change your name as many times as you wish using deed polls. However, frequent changes may raise questions from official bodies about your intentions, so ensure any changes are for legitimate reasons.
Will changing my name affect my immigration status? Changing your name doesn't affect your immigration status, visa, or right to work. However, notify the Home Office to update their records and ensure consistency across your documents.
Can I change my name if I have a criminal record? Yes, but you must disclose previous names when legally required. Using a name change to deceive authorities is illegal.
How soon can I start using my new name? Immediately after signing your deed poll. From that moment, your new name is legally yours. However, you'll need to update official records before organizations will recognize it formally.
Do I need to announce my name change publicly? No. An unenrolled deed poll is private. You don't need to publish your name change anywhere unless you choose the enrolled deed poll route.
What if my parents disapprove of my name change? If you're 18 or over, you don't need anyone's permission to change your name. If you're 16-17, you can change your name without parental consent in most circumstances, though it's advisable to discuss it with them.
Can I change my name if I'm married? Yes, absolutely. Being married doesn't restrict your right to change your name. If you want to change to a name different from either yours or your spouse's surname, a deed poll is the way to do it.
Final Thoughts: Your Name, Your Choice
Changing your name by deed poll in the UK is a straightforward process that gives you control over your identity. Whether you want to change your name after marriage or divorce, for personal preference, gender transition, or any other reason, the deed poll system provides a clear legal pathway.
Remember these key points:
You don't need an official "deed poll office"—you can create your own free deed poll or use any reputable service
An unenrolled deed poll is sufficient for almost everyone and protects your privacy
Update government records first, then work through financial institutions and other organizations systematically
Keep your deed poll safe and obtain multiple certified copies
Use the new name consistently from the moment you sign your deed poll
The entire process from creating a deed poll to updating most records typically takes 2-3 months
Your name is a fundamental part of your identity. If your current name doesn't reflect who you are or who you want to be, you have every right to change it. The deed poll process exists to make this change official, recognized, and permanent.
Whether you're taking your first steps toward using your new name or you're ready to apply for a deed poll today, trust that this is your decision to make. Thousands of people successfully change their name each year in the UK, and with proper preparation and the right documentation, your name change will be just as smooth.
Take your time, plan carefully, and soon you'll be confidently using your new name in every part of your life
