A deed poll is a legal document that proves a change of name. In England and Wales, you can change your name at any time simply by declaring it — you don't need permission from a court or government body.
An unenrolled deed poll (the type we provide) is the standard form used by the vast majority of people in the UK. It is self-declaratory, meaning you simply declare that you have given up your old name and adopted a new one.
The wording used by UK Deed Poll follows the form published by HM Government under the Open Government Licence v3.0, and is accepted by HM Passport Office, DVLA, HMRC, NHS and all major UK banks and building societies.
Note on enrolled deed polls
An unenrolled deed poll is accepted by all major UK organisations. Occasionally, a small number of banks or building societies may ask for an enrolled deed poll — a version registered with the Senior Courts. Enrolment is not a legal requirement and most banks do not ask for it. If a bank requests this, you can apply to enrol your deed poll through the Senior Courts Office (currently £53). Contact us if you encounter this.
The Legal Wording
Every deed poll we produce uses the following legally recognised wording:
"I [old name] of [address] have given up my name [old name] and have adopted for all purposes the name [new name].
Where applicable, I have informed the police that I have given up my name [old name] and have adopted the name [new name] and understand that a failure to do so is a criminal offence.
I also understand that when I apply for official documents in my new name, such as a British Passport, the relevant authorities may check the history and validity of my old name [old name] and new name [new name]. They may also check the information in any other supporting documents they have requested.
Signed as a deed on [date] as [old name] and [new name] in the presence of [witness 1 name] of [witness 1 address], and [witness 2 name] of [witness 2 address].
[new name signature], [old name signature]
[witness 1 signature], [witness 2 signature]"
Source: HM Government, published under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
How to Sign Your Deed Poll
When your deed poll arrives, you must sign it correctly for it to be legally valid:
- Sign in the presence of two independent adult witnesses who are not family members and do not live with you
- You must sign both your old name and your new name
- Both witnesses must sign and provide their full name and address
- Use black or blue ink — do not sign in pencil
- Do not sign the document until you are in the presence of your witnesses
- Do not alter or amend the document in any way after signing
Using Your Deed Poll
Once signed and witnessed, you can use your deed poll to update your name with any organisation. Most will require you to send an original certified copy — not a photocopy. This is why we strongly recommend ordering at least 8 copies.
The organisations you are likely to need to notify include:
- HM Passport Office
- DVLA (driving licence and vehicle registration)
- HMRC
- Your bank(s) and building society
- Your employer
- DWP (if you receive benefits)
- NHS and your GP
- Your local council (for council tax and electoral register)
- Mortgage provider and insurance companies
- HM Land Registry (if you own property)
Our Name Change Kit includes pre-written personalised notification letters for all of these organisations, saving you 15+ hours of admin.
Who Can Change Their Name?
- Adults (16+): Anyone aged 16 or over can change their name by deed poll without parental consent.
- Children (under 16): A deed poll for a child requires the consent of all persons with parental responsibility. If any person with parental responsibility does not consent, a court order is required.
- Children aged 16–17: Can apply as an adult without parental consent.