Change your name (by deed poll)

    You don’t have to follow a legal procedure if you want to start using a new name. However, you might need a ‘deed poll’ to apply for or change official documents, like a passport or driving licence.

    A deed poll is a legal document that proves a change of name.

    To change your name by deed poll you can:

    You may have to pay a fee to change your name by deed poll.

    Changing your name after marriage or civil partnership

    You don’t need a deed poll if you want to take your partner’s surname after getting married or entering into a civil partnership.

    Send a copy of your marriage or civil partnership certificate to record holders, with a covering letter, and your documents and records will be changed for free to show your new surname.

    You’ll need a deed poll if you get married or enter into a civil partnership and want to double-barrel your surname.

    Changing your name after divorce or end a civil partnership

    After getting divorced or ending a civil partnership, you may be able to go back to your original name by presenting either:

    • your marriage certificate and your decree absolute
    • your civil partnership certificate and your final order

    Some organisations may not agree to change your name back without a deed poll.