The brilliant thing about a deed poll is that the legal change itself happens almost instantly. There is no long waiting list or government department that needs to approve your new identity before you can use it. The moment you sign that piece of paper in front of an independent witness, your name is legally changed. From that exact second, your deed poll is active. There are some things to consider, though.
If you’re ready to legally change your name, our Deed Poll service makes the process straightforward and legally recognised throughout the UK.
The Administration Wait
While you are legally known by your new name straight away, you have to deal with the paperwork required to update your official identity documents.:
British passport – Getting Her Majesty’s Passport Office to issue a new passport in your new name usually takes around three weeks, though it can take longer during peak summer periods.
Driving licence – The DVLA generally processes a name change and issues a new licence within 3 weeks.
Banks and utilities – This depends entirely on which bank or utility you use. If you take your original deed poll into a local branch, many banks will update your account on the spot. If you have to mail it, expect a wait of 1 to 2 weeks.
Planning Ahead
If you use a specialist service to draft your deed poll, the document will usually arrive in the post within a couple of working days. If you write the legal wording yourself, it takes as long as it takes you to type it out and print it.
Visit our Deed Poll Blog for more guidance on changing your name and updating your official records.
If you need a hand with the legal side of things, changing your name via Deed Poll is a simple way to get everything in order. You can reach out to the UKDP team at 020 8017 2216.
To change your name...
- Fill in our online application form
- Receive your Deed Poll in the post
- Sign and date your Deed Poll
- Update records into your new name
We help thousands change their name and receive Excellent Feedback.
020 8017 2216 Start Your Application