Changing Your Name by Deed Poll
How to legally change your name in England & Wales using a deed poll, including the process, recognition, and when a deed poll is needed.
概述
In England & Wales, you can call yourself whatever you like — there is no law requiring you to use a particular name, and you can change your name simply by using a new one. However, a deed poll provides formal evidence of a name change that is recognised by government bodies, banks, the DVLA, HMRC, the Passport Office, and other organisations. A deed poll is a legal document that declares you are abandoning your old name and adopting a new one.
逐步流程
Decide Whether You Need a Deed Poll
A deed poll is not legally required to change your name, but most organisations will ask for one as evidence. You need a deed poll to update your passport, driving licence, bank accounts, and other official records. If you are changing your name after marriage or civil partnership, your marriage/civil partnership certificate is usually sufficient — you do not need a deed poll.
- You do NOT need a solicitor to create a deed poll
- Children under 16 need all persons with parental responsibility to consent
Create the Deed Poll
You can create a deed poll yourself (an 'unenrolled' deed poll) by writing a simple document that states your old name, your new name, your intention to abandon the old name, and your intention to use the new name at all times. The document must be signed by you and witnessed by two independent adults (not family members). Alternatively, you can use a deed poll service or solicitor.
- Use the standard wording: 'I [old name] of [address] have given up my name [old name] and have adopted for all purposes the name [new name]'
- The witnesses must sign and provide their names and addresses
- Print the deed poll on durable paper — you will need to show it to many organisations
Enrol the Deed Poll (Optional)
You can optionally 'enrol' your deed poll at the Royal Courts of Justice. This makes it a public record — your old and new names will be published in The London Gazette. Enrolment is not required and most people do not enrol. It is mainly useful for international purposes or if you want an official government record. Enrolment costs £42.44.
- Enrolment means your name change becomes public record — consider privacy implications
- Most UK organisations accept unenrolled deed polls
Update Your Records
Send a copy of your deed poll (or certified copies) to all relevant organisations to update your records. Priority updates typically include: passport (via HM Passport Office), driving licence (DVLA), bank accounts, HMRC, GP surgery, employer, and electoral register. Each organisation has its own process — most accept a copy of the deed poll by post or in person.
- Update your passport and driving licence first, as these serve as photo ID in your new name
- Keep several certified copies of your deed poll
- Some organisations may charge an admin fee — most do not
费用
重要警告
You cannot change your name for fraudulent purposes — for example, to avoid debts or criminal records.
A name change does not affect your legal obligations, contracts, or criminal record — these follow you regardless of name.
For children under 16, all persons with parental responsibility must consent. If consent cannot be obtained, a court order may be needed.