Making Your Deed Poll Official
Once you’ve received your Deed Poll from Change My Name, the final step is to make it official; this is called “execution”.
Executing your Deed Poll simply means signing the document in front of two valid witnesses. This step is essential to validate your name change and begin updating your identity across all official records.
Don’t worry, it’s a straightforward process, and we’ll include full instructions with your Deed Poll package to guide you through it.
Who Can Witness a Deed Poll?
If you’re a British citizen living in the UK (including Northern Ireland), your witnesses must meet the following requirements:
- Must be aged 18 or over
- Must know you personally
- Must be mentally capable of understanding what they are witnessing
- Must be independent, they cannot be related to you, live with you, or be in a romantic relationship with you
- Must be present at the time you sign your Deed Poll
Valid Witnesses May Include:
- A friend
- A neighbour
- A work colleague
Invalid Witnesses Include:
- Your parents or grandparents
- Siblings
- Your spouse, partner, or boyfriend/girlfriend
- Anyone you live with
Signing Your Deed Poll: Step-by-Step
- Print and Prepare
Once your Deed Poll arrives, read through it carefully. Make sure everything is correct before signing. - Arrange Two Witnesses
Choose two individuals who meet the requirements listed above. Let them know they’ll need to be present when you sign. - Sign in Black Ink
Using a black pen, sign your Deed Poll in front of your two witnesses. Each witness must also sign the document and print their full name, address, and occupation. - Allow Time for Review
Your witnesses should be given the chance to read your Deed Poll before signing. This ensures they understand what they are witnessing. - Execute Any Certified Copies
If you ordered certified copies with your Deed Poll, these must also be signed in the same way.
We provide full guidance in your Deed Poll pack, so you’ll have step-by-step support from start to finish.
Living Outside the UK?
If you’re a British citizen living abroad, your Deed Poll may need to be signed in the presence of a solicitor or notary public in your country of residence.
If you’re a foreign national, you should check with your home country’s embassy or consulate to find out if a Deed Poll is recognised and who must witness it for use in your jurisdiction.
How Many Witnesses Do You Need?
You must have two witnesses for your Deed Poll to be properly executed and valid. Both must sign at the time of your signing and meet all eligibility criteria.
Without two valid witness signatures, your name change will not be recognised by many official bodies, such as the DVLA, HM Passport Office, banks, and employers.
