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?
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. This is a simplified version — our full guide (included with every order) contains the complete checklist and detailed instructions.
What Is an Unenrolled Deed Poll?
An unenrolled deed poll is a legal document that confirms you have changed your name. It is:
- 100% legally valid in the UK
- Fast and simple to create
- Private — your name change is not made public
- Accepted by the passport office, DVLA, banks, employers, schools, and HMRC
Most people in the UK use an unenrolled deed poll when changing their name.
How an Unenrolled Deed Poll Works
An unenrolled deed poll includes:
- Your old name
- Your new name
- A declaration abandoning your old name
- Your promise to use your new name for all purposes
- Your signature and a witness signature
Once signed, you can use it to update your passport, driving licence, bank accounts, employer records, and more.
Is an Unenrolled Deed Poll Legal?
Yes — completely legal. UK law does not require you to register or enrol your deed poll.
An unenrolled deed poll is recognised by:
- HM Passport Office
- DVLA
- Banks & building societies
- Employers and HR departments
- NHS & GP surgeries
- HMRC
- Schools, colleges & universities
- Solicitors and landlords
It is the standard document used for legal name changes across the UK.
Unenrolled vs Enrolled Deed Poll
Unenrolled Deed Poll
- Private
- Quick
- Low cost
- Accepted everywhere
- Recommended for 99% of people
Enrolled Deed Poll
- Published publicly in The Gazette
- Creates a permanent public record
- More expensive
- Slower
- Rarely necessary
Unless you specifically need a permanent public record — which most people never do — an unenrolled deed poll is the correct option.
Do You Need an Enrolled Deed Poll for a Passport?
No — you do not. HM Passport Office accepts unenrolled deed polls as long as they are correctly drafted, signed, and witnessed.
You can update your:
- Passport
- Driving licence
- Bank accounts
- Employer records
- HMRC details
…all with an unenrolled deed poll.
Why Most People Choose an Unenrolled Deed Poll
- ✔ Legally valid everywhere
- ✔ No public record
- ✔ No government fees
- ✔ Fast and simple
- ✔ Accepted for passports and all ID updates
It is the default and recommended method for changing your name in the UK.
FAQs About Unenrolled Deed Polls
Is an unenrolled deed poll accepted everywhere?
Yes — all major organisations, including HM Passport Office, accept unenrolled deed polls.
Does an unenrolled deed poll expire?
No. Once created, it remains valid for life.
Do I have to enrol it in court?
No — enrolment is optional and rarely needed.
Why Choose Our Unenrolled Deed Poll Service?
If you want a legally valid deed poll that is guaranteed to be accepted by the passport office, banks, employers, DVLA, HMRC and more, our service is the perfect choice.
For just £19.49, you receive:
- A professionally formatted deed poll (legally valid)
- Digital signing support for fast setup
- A full step-by-step guide explaining how to update your passport and all other documents
- A complete name-change checklist to make the process simple
Thousands of customers use our documents successfully for passports and identity updates every month.
Conclusion
An unenrolled deed poll is the fast, simple, and fully legal way to change your name in the UK. It is accepted everywhere and requires no government registration.
If you want a professionally prepared deed poll that makes updating your passport and all your documents stress-free, our service gives you everything you need — instantly.
