Deed poll
Links marked * are commercial or go to our partner sites, which share our operator. Third-party companies may pay us commission. How we make money.
Content updated:
Definition: A legal document used in the UK to change your name. An unenrolled deed poll signed before two witnesses is enough for most everyday updates (passport, DVLA, banks).
Adults (and 16+) in England and Wales can change their name by deed poll without a court hearing. Under-16 changes need parental-responsibility consent. Enrolment at the Royal Courts of Justice is optional. Ready-made adult PDFs are typically around £14.99; child packs around £17.99.
Scotland often prefers a statutory declaration or NRS update; Northern Ireland also offers a GRONI recording route. After a name change, make or remake the will* separately. A deed poll is not a deed of variation or a Gender Recognition Certificate.
Primary source: gov.uk/change-name-deed-poll