What Is an Unenrolled Deed Poll? A Simple Guide to Legality in the UK (2025)
If you’re researching how to legally change your name in the UK, you’ve probably come across the term “unenrolled deed poll”. But what exactly is it—and is it genuinely legal?
There is a common misconception that you must "register" your name change with the government for it to be official. This is not true. In fact, over 95% of name changes in the UK are done via an unenrolled deed poll because it is faster, cheaper, and more private.
This guide explains what an unenrolled deed poll is, how it works, why it’s fully valid in the UK, and whether you actually need an enrolled version.
What Is an Unenrolled Deed Poll?
An unenrolled deed poll is a legal document that proves you have officially changed your name. It is a formal statement (a "Deed") where you declare three things:
- You are abandoning your old name.
- You will use your new name for all purposes moving forward.
- You require everyone else to address you by your new name.
Crucially, "unenrolled" simply means you have not chosen to voluntarily register it with the Royal Courts of Justice. It is a private legal document between you and the witnesses.
Is It Legal? Will the Passport Office Accept It?
Yes, absolutely.
Under English law, you can legally call yourself whatever you like (provided it’s not for fraudulent purposes). You do not need the government's permission to change your name.
An unenrolled deed poll is accepted by every major institution in the UK, including:
- HM Passport Office (to get your new passport)
- DVLA (for your driving licence)
- High Street Banks (Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, etc.)
- HMRC (for tax and National Insurance)
- Employers & Schools
As long as the document is correctly worded, signed, and witnessed, it carries the same legal weight as an expensive "enrolled" one.
Unenrolled vs. Enrolled: What’s the Difference?
If they both do the same thing, why do "enrolled" deed polls exist? Here is the comparison.
| Feature | Unenrolled (Our Service) | Enrolled (Government) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £19.49 | £50.32 + Solicitor Fees |
| Privacy | 100% Private | Public Record (Listed in The Gazette) |
| Speed | Instant Download | Takes weeks/months to process |
| Witnesses | Anyone over 18 (friend/colleague) | Must know you for 10 years + be a homeowner |
| Google Search | Your name change is not published | Your old & new name are permanently searchable |
The Privacy Issue
This is the main reason most people avoid enrolling. When you enrol a deed poll, your name change is published in The Gazette. This creates a permanent, searchable link between your old identity and your new one on the internet.
If you are escaping a difficult relationship, or simply want a fresh start without people Googling your past, an unenrolled deed poll is the safer choice.
How to Make an Unenrolled Deed Poll (In Minutes)
You don't need a solicitor to draft this for you (solicitors often charge £150+ for the exact same document we provide).
Step 1: Apply Online
Fill out our simple form with your current name, your new name, and your address. It takes less than 2 minutes.
Step 2: Download & Print
We generate the official legal wording for you instantly. You just download the PDF and print it on high-quality paper.
Step 3: Sign & Witness
Sign the document in the presence of a witness (a friend, neighbour, or colleague who is over 18 and not related to you). Once you both sign it, your name is legally changed.
Summary: Do You Need to Enrol?
In 99% of cases, the answer is No.
Unless you have a very specific reason to put your name on the permanent public record, an unenrolled deed poll is faster, cheaper, and protects your privacy.
Ready to change your name today?
Start your application now and receive your official Deed Poll and Guide in minutes.
