Picking a name for a human being is a huge responsibility. It is one of the few decisions that will stick with your child for the rest of their life. So, it is no surprise that many new parents feel a wave of "namer's remorse" or simple indecision in those sleep-deprived first weeks.
Perhaps you announced a name to the family, but now it doesn't feel right. Or perhaps you and your partner are still locked in a stalemate. The good news is that in the UK, the name isn't legal until you sign the register.
Here is everything you need to know about the deadlines, the rules, and your rights to change your mind before registration.
The 42-Day Deadline (England, Wales & NI)
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, you legally have 42 days (6 weeks) from the date of birth to register your baby. (In Scotland, the limit is stricter—just 21 days).
This 42-day window acts as a "grace period." During this time, your baby effectively has no official legal name. You might be calling them "George" at home, but legally, they are just "Baby [Surname]."
Can I change the name during this period?
Yes. Because the name hasn't been legally recorded yet, there is nothing to "change."
If you told all your friends the baby was called "Oliver" but after three weeks you decide he looks more like a "Harry," you can simply walk into the Registry Office and register him as "Harry." You do not need a Deed Poll. You do not need to fill out any forms explaining the switch. The name you write in the register becomes the first and only legal name.
What If We Can't Agree by Day 42?
If you hit the 6-week mark and still haven't registered a name, you are technically breaking the law.
- The Fine: Theoretically, you can be fined up to £200 for failing to register a birth on time.
- The Reality: Registrars are generally understanding humans. If you are a few days late, you usually just get a stern reminder. However, if you delay significantly without a good reason, the Local Authority can send you a formal requisition ordering you to attend.
Warning: You cannot leave the "Name" section blank. You must provide a name to complete the registration.
"I've Registered the Name but Changed My Mind"
If you have already signed the register and received the birth certificate, the 42-day grace period is over. The name is now legal. However, if you act quickly, you might avoid the need for a Deed Poll.
The "12-Month Rule" (Forenames Only)
There is a little-known provision that allows you to change a child's forenames (first and middle names) on the birth certificate within 12 months of the registration.
- Certificate of Name Given in Baptism: If the child was baptised with new names.
- Certificate of Name Given not in Baptism: If you just changed your mind.
You can submit these forms to the registrar to amend the original entry. This shows the new name alongside the old one.
The Limitation
This rule only applies to first and middle names. It cannot be used to change a child's surname. If you registered the wrong surname (or want to double-barrel it later), you cannot use this method.
When Do I Need a Deed Poll?
You will need a Child Deed Poll if:
- It has been more than 12 months since the registration.
- You want to change the Surname. (The registrar will rarely amend a surname unless there was a genuine spelling error made by the clerk).
- You want a "Clean" Birth Certificate: Amending a birth certificate leaves a note in the margin showing the change. A Deed Poll is a separate document that proves the new identity without altering the historic birth record.
Summary
The 42-day window is your safety net. Use it to be absolutely sure. Until that pen hits the paper in the Registry Office, you are free to change your mind as many times as you like without any legal paperwork.
However, if the deadline has passed and the certificate is signed, and you realise you've made a mistake with the surname, don't worry. It is easily fixed.
Need to correct a registered name? Contact our team today to order a Child Deed Poll and get the name right officially.
