When you begin the process of changing your name in the UK, you will inevitably encounter two terms that cause a lot of confusion: enrolled and unenrolled deed polls. At first glance, "enrolled" sounds more official, leading many people to believe it is the "correct" way to change a name. In reality, the two documents have the same legal weight, but the processes, costs, and privacy implications are worlds apart.
At UK Name Change, we believe in transparency. Understanding these differences is the best way to save yourself time, money, and unnecessary legal hurdles. This guide breaks down exactly what each term means and which one is right for your situation.
What is an Unenrolled Deed Poll?
An unenrolled deed poll is a private legal document. It is "unenrolled" because it is not registered with any court or government registry. Instead, it is a personal agreement you sign and have witnessed by an independent adult.
The key thing to remember: An unenrolled deed poll is the standard, modern method for changing your name in the UK. It is 100% legally valid and is accepted by every major institution, including:
- HM Passport Office
- The DVLA (for your driving licence)
- HMRC (for tax and National Insurance)
- High-street banks and building societies
- The NHS and your local GP surgery
Why 99% of People Choose Unenrolled
Most of our clients across London and the UK opt for an unenrolled deed poll for three main reasons:
- Speed: You can generate and sign an unenrolled deed poll today. There is no waiting for court approval or postal delays.
- Affordability: An unenrolled deed poll starts at just £19.49. There are no court fees, no solicitor costs, and no hidden charges.
- Total Privacy: Your name change remains a private matter. It is not published in any public register or newspaper.
What is an Enrolled Deed Poll?
An enrolled deed poll is a document that you voluntarily "enrol" with the Royal Courts of Justice in London. This means the court keeps a permanent record of your name change in the "Enrolment Books" of the Supreme Court.
While this might sound prestigious, it is essentially a safe-keeping service. Once enrolled, your name change becomes a matter of public record. Your old name, your new name, and your home address will be published in the London Gazette, making them searchable by anyone on the internet forever.
The Barriers to Enrolment
Enrolling a deed poll is a significantly more complex and expensive process:
- High Costs: In 2025, the court fee alone is £50.32. When you add the cost of solicitors and statutory declarations, the price can easily exceed £100–£200.
- Lengthy Timeline: The process typically takes 4 to 8 weeks to complete, as you must wait for the court to process your application and the Gazette to publish the notice.
- Strict Requirements: You must have a witness who has known you for at least 10 years and is a UK property owner. If you are married, you often need the written consent of your spouse to enrol your name change.
Enrolled vs Unenrolled: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Unenrolled Deed Poll | Enrolled Deed Poll |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Validity | 100% Legally Binding | 100% Legally Binding |
| Time to Create | Instant | 4 to 8 Weeks |
| Cost | From £19.49 | £50.32 + Legal Fees |
| Privacy | Private | Public (London Gazette) |
| Acceptance | Accepted by all UK bodies | Accepted by all UK bodies |
When Would You Actually Need an Enrolled Deed Poll?
For the vast majority of people, the answer is: never.
There are only a few very specific, rare instances where an enrolled deed poll might be considered:
- If you hold a hereditary title and wish for the change to be officially recorded for primogeniture or inheritance purposes.
- If you are dealing with a complex foreign estate where the overseas lawyers insist on a court-recorded document (though even then, an Apostille on an unenrolled deed poll is usually sufficient).
- If you simply want your name change to be a part of permanent British history for future genealogists.
Why UK Name Change Focuses on Unenrolled Deed Polls
We specialize in unenrolled deed polls because they offer the best balance of speed, cost, and legal security. Our documents are drafted to meet the exact standards of the HM Passport Office and the DVLA, ensuring that you don't face rejection when updating your records.
By choosing our service, you get the legal protection of a professionally drafted deed poll without the "privacy tax" or the heavy administrative burden of the court system. We provide you with the tools to change your name instantly and the dashboard to manage the updates across every UK institution you deal with.
Final Thoughts
If your goal is to update your passport, change your bank cards, and start your life with your new name as quickly as possible, an unenrolled deed poll is almost certainly what you need. It is the efficient, private, and modern way to handle a name change in the 21st century.
Ready to get started? You can generate your legally valid unenrolled deed poll in under five minutes using our secure online platform. If you’re still unsure which option fits your unique circumstances, please contact our London-based support team—we’re happy to help you make the right choice.