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Can I change my name by deed poll?

Almost certainly, if you are 16 or over and live in the UK. Answer two or three questions to check the few exceptions, and the duties some people have when they change their name.

Checked against GOV.UK Updated

A drawing of a deed poll with a large blue tick beside it

Anyone aged 16 or over can change their name by deed poll, with no reason and nobody's agreement, unless their permanent home is abroad. A child under 16 needs the agreement of everyone with parental responsibility, or a court order. Registered offenders tell the police within 3 days. Who can change their name? has the detail.

Who can change their name, in short

  • 16 or over. You make your own deed poll, for any reason or none, and nobody has to agree. There is no upper age limit.
  • Under 16. A parent makes the deed on the child's behalf, with the agreement of everyone who holds parental responsibility, or a court order.
  • Any nationality. A UK deed poll works in the UK whatever your nationality; only your own country can change the name in its passport.
  • Living abroad. A permanent resident overseas cannot use a UK deed poll, GOV.UK says. Someone abroad for a while, with a home in the UK, can.
  • A criminal record. Not a bar. Registered offenders tell the police within 3 days of using the new name, and people on licence or probation tell their officer.

The name itself has rules too: pronounceable, with no numbers or symbols, and nothing offensive. Will my new name be accepted? checks one as you type.

Questions people ask

Can anyone change their name by deed poll?

Almost anyone living in the UK. GOV.UK says that from 16 you can make a deed poll yourself, with no reason given and nobody's agreement; there is no upper age limit and no need to be a British citizen. The exception GOV.UK names is a permanent resident overseas.

Can I change my name at 16 without my parents' consent?

Yes. HM Passport Office's guidance says 16 and 17 year olds can change their name without parental consent, unless a court order, such as a care order, says otherwise. Changing your name at 16 or 17

Can I change my name if I have a criminal record?

Yes. GOV.UK sets no bar for convictions; it adds duties. Registered sex, violent and terrorist offenders must tell the police within 3 days of using the new name, and people on licence or probation tell their officer. Can I change my name if I have a criminal record?

Can I change my name by deed poll before my divorce is final?

Yes. A deed poll works at any stage, including before the divorce is final, and for any organisation that will not accept your divorce papers. Going back to your maiden name

Can I change my name if I live abroad?

Not by UK deed poll if your permanent home is abroad: GOV.UK says the country where you live decides. If you are abroad only for a while and your home is in the UK, you can. Living outside the UK

Something else? Ask us, and a person replies by email, normally the same working day.