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How old do you have to be to change your name?
The law says you must be over 16 years of age to change your name by deed poll in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
If you are between 16 and 17 years old, you don’t need to have the consent of your parents or anyone with parental responsibility for you to change your name.
You can do it without asking anyone unless there is a court order preventing your name being changed.
Further Information About on Age Restrictions
Additional Information
However, if you change your name, a person with parental responsibility, may apply to the court to have it reversed, and the court will have to determine whether you are mature enough to understand the consequences.
In most cases a court will uphold your deed poll unless there are very good reasons not to.
Children under the age of 16 cannot change their name themselves. Only persons with parental responsibility can do this. If two people have parental responsibility both persons need to consent.
If one of the persons with parental responsibility does not consent, then you cannot change a child’s name without a court order.
You can apply online today and receive your deed poll documents within 1-2 working days. From just £15.99 we provide a low cost, but high quality deed poll service.
Our Deed Poll Services
Adult Deed Poll Service
An adult deed poll is the quickest and easiest way to legally have your name changed in the UK if you are 16 years old or older. You do not need consent from anyone to change your legal name.
Child Deed Poll Service
We can draft an official child deed poll for you, which will enable you to change your child’s legal name. Please note that everyone with parental responsibility must consent to the name change.
Replacement Deed Poll
If you have lost or misplaced your deed poll and require a new one as legal proof that you have changed your name previously, you will need to order a Replacement Deed Poll.
Free 1st Class Delivery
Once you have placed your order it will be sent by 1st class post.
Change my name?
Use our quick and easy deed poll services to change your name.
Institute of Paralegals
We are certified members of the institute of paralegals, making sure you receive professional & expert advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sort of name can you choose?
You are legally entitled to change your name to anything you desire providing that you are not trying to defraud or deceive anyone. Call us for more information if you are unsure.
Is there an official deed poll office in the UK?
This is a common misconception. There is no government department or entity that provides deed polls. All the providers of deed poll documents in the UK, are either lawyers or private providers like ourselves.
How long will it take to change my name?
You will receive your deed poll and copies within 24 hours (except weekends and bank holidays).
How much does a deed poll cost?
Our deed polls are £15.99 including vat, there is a drop down box on the order page for you to choose the amount of certified copies you require.
What other costs will there be to change my name?
The authorities where you change your name such as the Passport Office and DVLA will require you to submit your deed with an official application form and fees may be charged for doing so.
Do I really need a deed poll?
There are times when a deed poll is not needed to change your name. We have listed the most usual types of situations for you.
Do I have to update my driving licence in my new name?
Yes, you will need to apply for a new copy licence from the DVLA.
Can my employer (or potential employer) ask me about my former name?
If on application, the employers asks for any names you may have been known by, then you should tell them. Non discourse of facts such as these could lead to your instant dismissal.
