How to Change Your Name
The process of changing your name in the United Kingdom is simpler than you might think. You don't need to go to court, hire a solicitor, or deal with complicated paperwork.
Whether you're getting married, starting fresh, or choosing a name that feels right, here's what you need to know.
How Name Changes Work
In England and Wales, you use a deed poll to change your name. This is a straightforward legal document that makes the change official.
Once it's signed and witnessed, you use it to update your records with banks, government departments, employers, and other organisations. By law, all UK organisations are required to accept it.
Who Can Change Their Name
If you're 16 or over and live in England or Wales, you can change your name without needing anyone's permission.
You can change your first name, middle name, surname, or any combination, with very few restrictions on what you can choose.
Why People Change Their Names
People change their names for many reasons. Some take a spouse's surname after marriage. Others revert to a previous name after divorce. Some choose a name that better reflects who they are.

Whatever your reason, you have the right to change your name in the UK. You don't need to justify your decision to anyone.
How it Works
1. Apply for a Deed Poll
Apply online with Deedly. Our name change experts will draft your deed poll document and post it to your door.
2. Sign and Witness Your Deed Poll
You'll sign your deed poll in the presence of two witnesses. They must be over 18, not related to you, and not live at your address. Friends, neighbours, or work colleagues are all acceptable.
Once it's signed and witnessed, your deed poll becomes legally binding.
3. Update Your Documents
Once your deed poll is signed and witnessed, your name is legally changed. Your deed poll serves as proof, allowing you to update your passport, driving licence, bank accounts, and other official documents.
Why Deed Polls Are So Popular
Deed polls are the most popular method for changing your name in the UK because they're:
- Simple - The process is straightforward and doesn't require legal expertise.
- Fast - You can receive your deed poll and change your name within a few days.
- Flexible - You can change any part of your name at any time.
- Affordable - Deed polls cost significantly less than other legal processes.
- Widely accepted - All UK organisations must accept them as proof of your name change.
Common Questions
How much does it cost?
It costs £20 to apply for a deed poll with Deedly, with free delivery.
Can I choose any name I want?
Yes, you can change your name to almost anything you choose. The main restrictions are that your name cannot include numbers or special characters (except hyphens and apostrophes), impersonate someone else, or contain offensive language.
You can change your first name, middle name, surname, or any combination.
Do I need to register my name change?
No. There's no official registry for names or name changes in the UK. Your deed poll is your legal proof of name change, and you use it to update your records directly with individual organisations like your bank, passport office, DVLA, and employer.
Will I be able to get a new passport and driving licence?
Yes. Once your name is legally changed, you can update your passport and driving licence.
You'll send your deed poll to HM Passport Office and DVLA along with your application, and they'll issue new documents in your new name.
Do I need to be a British citizen?
No. Anyone who lives in England or Wales can change their name, regardless of nationality or citizenship status.
You can use your deed poll to update documents like your eVisa, UK driving licence, and bank accounts.
Ready to Change Your Name?
We've helped over 5,000 people successfully change their name, and our deed polls are guaranteed to be accepted by all UK organisations, giving you confidence that your name change will be recognised everywhere.
Apply online in minutes and start using your new name within days!
