How to Legally Change Your Name UK
How to Legally Change Your Name in the UK by Deed Poll: A Complete Guide
Thinking about a new name? The desire for a name change is a significant life event, whether it's to revert to a maiden name, choose a new surname, or adopt a name that truly reflects your identity. Fortunately, the process is often more straightforward than people imagine.
You can legally change your name if you are 16 or over with an Adult Deed Poll, unless there is a court order or legal restrictions in place against you, or you intend to deceive someone. For under 16, you need a Child's Deed Poll.
The Deed Poll: Your Key to a New Name in the UK
Before diving into the process, it's important to understand what a Deed Poll is. A Deed Poll is a formal legal document that acts as a declaration of your intent to abandon your old name and commit to using a new one for all purposes.
When you research how to "legally change your name in the UK with a deed poll," you will likely encounter the terms "enrolled" and "unenrolled." For the vast majority of people in the UK, an unenrolled Deed Poll is all that is required.
An unenrolled Deed Poll is a Deed Poll that is simply created, signed by you, and witnessed by independent individuals. It is a a legal document that is accepted by the majority of UK organisations.
Enrolled Deed Poll, by contrast, involves submitting it to the Royal Courts of Justice to be recorded in the public records. This process is more complex. Unless there is a specific legal reason requiring it, an "unenrolled deed poll" offers the same power and recognition for all standard purposes.
How to apply for one?
In the past, changing your name might have seemed daunting, but modern online services have streamlined the entire procedure. Here’s a breakdown of how easily you can complete your Deed Poll name change.
1. Apply Online
- Go to ''Apply Now'' page.
- Complete the form and pay.
- A receipt will be emailed to you.
2. Execute
- Receive your deed poll by post.
- Date and sign the Deed Poll.
- Comprehensive guide is provided.
3. Notify
Use your Deed Poll to support your applications to change your name on your documents, as well as to update your other records e.g. bank account, utility bills, etc.
Witnessing your Deed Poll:
Anyone over the age of 18 can witness your Deed Poll as long as they know you and they are independent of you. 'Independent' means they are not a relative, partner or someone who lives at the same address as you.
Updating Your Passport and Driving Licence
Two of the most important updates you will make are to your passport and driving licence.
- Changing Your Name on a UK Passport: To get a new passport, you must complete the standard passport application process. You will need to submit your original Deed Poll along with your application. The Passport Office will review the document, process your application for a new passport.
- Updating Your Driving Licence with DVLA: You are legally required to have the correct name on your driving licence. To update it, you need to complete a D1 application form (for cars and motorbikes) and send it to the DVLA with your original Deed Poll and your current photocard licence. The DVLA will update their records and issue a new licence in your new name.
Who to Notify After Your Name Change
Once you have your Deed Poll, you need to inform everyone who holds your records. While the full list is extensive, it can be broken down into key categories;
- HM Passport Office, DVLA, HMRC, DWP, and your local council.
- Banks, building societies, credit card companies, and mortgage and pension providers.
- Employer, GP surgery, dentist, and optician.
- Providers for gas, electricity, water, internet, and phone.
- All insurance providers (car, home, life).
How We Can Help
Ready to change your name? Deed Poll Direct offers a fast and affordable online service for a professionally drafted Deed Poll. We guarantee our legally compliant documents will be accepted by all UK organisations, making your name change simple and worry-free. Apply Now!