In the UK, your name is more than just an identifier—it’s a personal, cultural, and sometimes spiritual expression of who you are. Whether you’re transitioning, aligning with your heritage, escaping a past identity, or just embracing a new chapter in life, changing your name is a legal right. One of the most accessible and flexible methods of doing this is through an unenrolled deed poll.
But what exactly is an unenrolled deed poll? How is it different from an enrolled one? Do you need a solicitor? Is it valid everywhere? This blog post answers all your questions—without the legal jargon, misinformation, or recycled content you’ve probably already seen online.
What Is an Unenrolled Deed Poll?
An unenrolled deed poll is a legal document that you create and sign yourself (with witnesses) to officially declare that you are abandoning your old name and adopting a new one. “Unenrolled” simply means it has not been registered with the High Court.
Despite the lack of court registration, an unenrolled deed poll is fully legal and widely accepted across the UK by government departments, banks, and other institutions—provided it’s correctly drafted and executed.
Key Features:
- Private: No public record is made.
- Quicker: No need to apply through the courts.
- Cheaper: No enrolment fees.
- Flexible: No requirement to publish your name change in the London Gazette.
Why People Choose Unenrolled Over Enrolled
Choosing not to enroll your deed poll comes down to control, privacy, and simplicity.
Privacy Matters: Enrolling a deed poll means your name change will be published in the London Gazette, which is searchable online. For individuals escaping abuse, undergoing gender transition, or simply valuing discretion, this is an obvious concern.
Speed: You can create an unenrolled deed poll in under an hour. Enrolment can take weeks.
Cost: The enrolment fee (as of 2025) is £50.32 per person, whereas you can get an unenrolled deed poll for under £20 from the Deed Poll Department.
How to Create a Valid Unenrolled Deed Poll (Step-by-Step)
Unlike the myth that you need a solicitor, you can draft your own deed poll as long as it meets the legal criteria — or you can apply for an unenrolled deed poll from the Deed Poll Department. Here are the steps for a quick and easy name change:
Decide on your new name: Consider the name that best reflects your identity. Whether you are adopting a new name entirely or modifying your existing name, clarity on your chosen name is essential.
Apply for a deed poll
- Complete the Application: Fill out the required details on our website.
- Receive Your Deed Poll: Once processed, you’ll receive your Deed Poll, which legally confirms your new name.
- Sign your deed poll in front of a witness to make it legally valid.
Update Your official documents: Update your name with banks, the DVLA, HM Passport Office and more.
Where Is an Unenrolled Deed Poll Accepted?
Despite not being enrolled, a properly executed deed poll is accepted by:
- HM Passport Office
- DVLA
- Banks and utility companies
- HMRC
- Universities and employers
Some foreign governments may require a court-enrolled deed poll to change names on foreign passports or documents.
Special Cases: Children, Trans Individuals, and Immigrants
For Minors:
- A parent with parental responsibility must apply.
- Both parents (if they share parental responsibility) should consent.
For Transgender Individuals:
- You do not need a Gender Recognition Certificate to change your name.
- An unenrolled deed poll is often the first step in aligning documents with your gender identity.
For Non-UK Nationals:
- Check with your home country’s embassy. Some do not recognize name changes made solely via UK deed polls.
Top 5 Misconceptions About Unenrolled Deed Polls
They’re not legally binding.
False. They are completely legal under common law.
You must use a solicitor.
You can DIY it—as long as it’s correctly drafted and witnessed.
Only enrolled deed polls are accepted by banks.
Almost all UK institutions accept unenrolled ones.
You must change your name on your birth certificate.
Not true for most adults; only applicable in specific cases, like Gender Recognition or adoption.
Unenrolled deed polls are temporary.
No—once you’ve changed your name and updated your records, it’s permanent unless you change it again.
When Should You Consider Enrolling Instead?
- For official recognition abroad.
- If required by a specific institution.
- To create a public legal record of your name change.
- For historical or ceremonial reasons, like knighthood or family heritage.
Final Thoughts: Empowering Your Identity
The freedom to change your name is not only a legal right in the UK—it’s a personal freedom. Whether you’re adopting a name that reflects your identity, honouring a cultural heritage, or simply reshaping your future, an unenrolled deed poll is your gateway.
Unlike the rigid bureaucracy of some legal processes, the unenrolled deed poll empowers you to take control of your identity with minimal cost, effort, and exposure. For many, it’s not just about a new name—it’s about a fresh start.
So go ahead—rename your narrative. Just make sure it’s signed, witnessed, and stamped with the authenticity of who you truly are.