What Documents Do You Need to Change Your Name? (The Checklist)
There is a common misconception that you need to send us your birth certificate or passport to get a Deed Poll.
The good news is: You don't.
However, while getting your Deed Poll is document-free, using it to update your passport and driving licence requires a specific set of paperwork. Here is your complete checklist of what you need at every stage.
Stage 1: Getting Your Deed Poll (What You Need NOW)
If you are applying for an Adult Deed Poll online with us, the process is purely data-entry. We do not require you to post us any physical documents.
You simply need to know:
- Your current full name (exactly as it appears on your birth certificate or passport).
- Your new full name.
- Your current address.
- Your Date of Birth (to confirm you are over 16).
For Child Deed Polls (Under 16s):
We do not usually need to see the child's birth certificate, but you must legally have the consent of everyone with Parental Responsibility (usually both parents) before you apply. You will be making a legal declaration that you have this consent.
Stage 2: Using Your Deed Poll (The "Evidence" Phase)
Once your Deed Poll arrives and you have signed it, you need to send it to the relevant authorities. This is where you need to gather your paperwork.
1. To Update Your UK Passport
HM Passport Office is the strictest body. To renew your passport in your new name, you generally need to send:
- Your Old Passport (uncancelled).
- Your Original Deed Poll (not a photocopy).
- Evidence of Name in Use (See list below).
What is "Evidence of Name in Use"?
Sometimes, the Passport Office will ask for proof that you are actually using the new name in your daily life. This is common if your Deed Poll is very recent. You may need to send 1 or 2 of the following documents showing your new name:
- Driving Licence (if you updated this first).
- Tax record (e.g., P60 or letter from HMRC).
- Employment record (payslip or letter from employer).
- Utility bill (gas, electric, or water).
- Bank statement.
- Letter from your Local Council.
2. To Update Your Driving Licence (DVLA)
The DVLA is slightly easier. You usually need to send:
- Form D1 (Application for a driving licence).
- Your Old Driving Licence (photocard and/or paper counterpart).
- Your Original Deed Poll.
Special Cases: Non-UK Nationals
If you are not a British Citizen, or if you hold dual nationality, the rules are different.
The UK Passport Office has a strict "One Name Policy." They will not issue a British Passport in a new name if you still hold a foreign passport in your old name.
The Rule: You must usually change your non-UK passport first. Only once your foreign documents match your Deed Poll will the UK authorities update your British records.
Summary: The "Original" Rule
The one thing every organisation asks for is an Original Deed Poll. They will almost always reject a photocopy.
If you only have one original, you have to wait for the Passport Office to return it (up to 10 weeks) before you can send it to the DVLA. This is why we recommend ordering duplicate originals—so you have enough "legal evidence" to send to everyone at once.
Start With No Paperwork
Ready to begin? You don't need to dig out your birth certificate. Just fill in our simple online form and get your Deed Poll sent to you tomorrow.
