Who Can Change Their Name in the UK?
Adults (16 and over)
Anyone aged 16 or over can change their name independently using a Deed Poll.
No parental permission is required.
Children (Under 16)
A child’s name can be changed if:
- Everyone with parental responsibility consents
- The new name follows legal naming rules
- The change is in the child’s best interests
Many parents use a Deed Poll to ensure the name change is officially recognised by schools, healthcare providers, and government agencies.
British Citizens and UK Residents
You do not need British citizenship to change your name.
Anyone living in the UK can legally use a Deed Poll, regardless of nationality or immigration status (though your home country’s rules may vary).
Who Cannot Change Their Name?
While the rules are flexible, there are some restrictions. You cannot change your name if:
- You are attempting to commit fraud
- You are changing your name to avoid debt, criminal proceedings, or immigration enforcement
- You are legally restricted by a court order (rare but possible)
As long as your name change is genuine and lawful, it will be accepted by all major UK organisations.
What Names Are Allowed?
In the UK, you have wide freedom to choose your name — but it must follow simple guidelines. A name must not:
- Contain numbers, symbols, or emojis
- Be intentionally misleading (e.g., “King of England”)
- Promote hate speech or criminal activity
- Be excessively long
If your chosen name meets these criteria, you can legally adopt it using a Deed Poll.
How Do You Change Your Name Legally?
The simplest and most widely recognised method is a Deed Poll.
A Deed Poll confirms your intention to:
- Abandon your old name
- Use your new name consistently
- Be known by your new name in official settings
Once signed and witnessed, your Deed Poll becomes your legal document for updating:
- Passport
- Driving licence
- Bank accounts
- HMRC
- Employer records
- Utility and insurance providers
Why Use Change My Name?
At Change My Name, we make the name change process easy for everyone:
- Fast, secure online application
- Fully recognised UK Deed Polls
- Printed, signed documents delivered to your home
- Clear, step-by-step guidance
- No hidden fees
Whether you’re changing your own name or applying on behalf of a child, we ensure your new name is legally valid and accepted by all UK authorities.
Start Your Name Change Today
Changing your name in the UK is simple, accessible, and completely legal for almost everyone.
Apply online today and receive your official, legally recognised Deed Poll quickly and securely.
