Is a deed poll legally valid without a solicitor?

Yes. A deed poll is a legal document that does not require a solicitor, notary or any other professional to be legally valid. You simply need to sign it in the presence of two independent witnesses (one is technically sufficient, but two is recommended). Under English common law, you have the right to call yourself whatever you wish, and a deed poll simply provides documentary evidence of your name change.

Do I need to enrol my deed poll with the Royal Courts of Justice?

No. Enrolment under the Enrolment of Deeds (Change of Name) Regulations 1994 is entirely optional and costs £42.44. The vast majority of people do not enrol their deed polls. An unenrolled deed poll is just as legally valid as an enrolled one. The only practical difference is that an enrolled deed poll becomes a matter of public record, which some people prefer to avoid.

Why do some websites charge £15-35 for a deed poll?

Many websites charge for printing the deed poll on parchment-style paper or for providing 'certified copies'. These services are not legally necessary. A deed poll printed on ordinary white paper is just as valid. You do not need to pay anyone to change your name — it is a free legal right.

Will banks and the DVLA accept this deed poll?

Yes. All UK government departments, banks, the DVLA, HMRC, the Passport Office, and other organisations are legally required to accept a valid deed poll as evidence of your name change. If any organisation refuses, you should escalate the matter through their complaints procedure.

Can I change my child's name with a deed poll?

If the child is aged 16 or 17, they can execute a deed poll themselves. For children under 16, all persons with parental responsibility must consent to the name change. If there is a Child Arrangements Order in place, you may need the court's permission under section 13 of the Children Act 1989.

How many copies of my deed poll should I make?

It is recommended to print and sign at least three to five original copies. Each copy should be signed by you and witnessed on the same occasion. You will need to send original copies to various organisations (banks, DVLA, Passport Office, etc.) and it is advisable to keep at least one original for your personal records.

Free Deed Poll Template for Name Change

A deed poll is a legal document that allows you to officially change your name in the United Kingdom.

FreePDF & Word

Your data stays on your device — nothing is sent to any server.

Personal Information

Current Full Name*

New Full Name*

Date of Birth*

Current Address*

execution

Date of Deed Poll*

Witnesses

Witness 1 — Full Name*

Must be an independent adult (not a family member) who has known you for at least one year.

Witness 1 — Address*

Add a second witness (recommended but not legally required)

Witness 2 — Full Name

Witness 2 — Address

Document Preview

DEED POLL (Change of Name) BY THIS DEED OF CHANGE OF NAME, I, the undersigned [oldFullName] of [address], born on [dateOfBirth], a British citizen, do hereby: 1. ABSOLUTELY and entirely renounce, relinquish and abandon the use of my former name [oldFullName] and in substitution therefor assume and adopt and determine to take and use from the date hereof the name [newFullName] in all records, deeds, documents and other writings and in all actions and proceedings and in all dealings and transactions and on all occasions whatsoever. 2. REQUEST AND AUTHORISE all persons at all times hereafter to designate, describe and address me by my adopted name of [newFullName]. 3. DECLARE that I shall at all times hereafter in all records, deeds, documents, and other writings and in all actions and proceedings and in all dealings and transactions and on all occasions whatsoever use and subscribe the said name of [newFullName] as my name in substitution for my former name [oldFullName]. IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto subscribed my adopted and substituted name of [newFullName] and also my said former name of [oldFullName] this [date]. Signed as a deed: ___________________________ [newFullName] (new name) ___________________________ [oldFullName] (former name) WITNESSED by: Witness 1: Name: [witness1Name] Address: [witness1Address] Signature: ___________________________ Witness 2: Name: [witness2Name] Address: [witness2Address] Signature: ___________________________

Important Notes

Legal Disclaimer

A deed poll is a legally binding document under English common law. The right to change your name by deed poll is an established common law right — no statute specifically governs the process. The Enrolment of Deeds (Change of Name) Regulations 1994 (SI 1994/604) allow for optional enrolment at the Royal Courts of Justice, but this is not required for the deed poll to be valid. Witnesses must be independent adults aged 18 or over who are not related to you by blood or marriage. Some organisations may request an enrolled deed poll or a statutory declaration as an alternative. This template is suitable for adults aged 16 and over in England and Wales. Scottish residents may prefer a statutory declaration. Northern Ireland follows similar common law principles.

This template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For complex legal matters, we recommend consulting a qualified solicitor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Templates

Statutory Declaration of Name Change Statutory Declaration Affidavit Template