How much does it cost to change your name?

Answer

The cost of changing your name legally varies depending on how you want to do it, and whether or not you want to instruct a specialist Change of Name Solicitors or Deed Poll Agency to help you.

How much does it cost to change your name by Deed Poll?

Unenrolled Deed Poll

If you’re over 16, you can make an ‘unrolled’ Deed Poll for free provided you use the wording here, sign and date it, and have 2 witnesses over the age of 18 sign it too.

While unenrolled deed polls are legally valid, some organisations (like banks) might not accept a deed poll that’s been made yourself. Having a solicitor draft the document and act as a witness can hold more weight, or you can opt for an ‘enrolled’ deed poll. 

It’s also worth noting that many organisations won’t accept a document that’s been witnessed by individuals who live at the same address or are close relatives.

Enrolled Deed Poll

Enrolling a Deed Poll essentially means you’re adding it to the public record via the Royal Courts of Justice. It costs £48.32.

While it is possible to complete an enrolled deed poll yourself using the forms available here, the process is a lot more complex and it's advisable that you seek the advice of a solicitor to make sure you’re submitting all the correct documents and evidence, along with having it witnessed by a professional. 

Many opt against an enrolled deed poll due to the cost and privacy concerns, as it is mandatory to have a written notice published in the London Gazette (which will share your old name, new name and full address).

An enrolled deed poll is no more legally valid than an unrolled deed poll.

Changing a Child’s Name by Deed Poll

To change the name of a child (i.e. anyone under the age of 16), you’ll need the permission of everyone who has Parental Responsibility or a Court Order.

You can make an unenrolled deed poll for free, however you’ll need to use a specialist deed poll agency or solicitor who will have their own fees. 

To make an enrolled deed poll (in which the child’s new name will feature public record in the London Gazette), the cost is £49.32.

How much does it cost to change your name on a Passport?

To change your name on a passport after legally changing it via deed poll, you’ll need to pay for a new passport entirely. For online applications that’s £88.50, or for paper applications its £100.

Remember, you’ll need to submit your application along with your new deed poll along with proof of any previous name changes and evidence that you’re using your new name (either a bill or payslip, etc.).

How much does it cost to change your name on a Drivers License?

It’s free to change your name or gender on your driver's license unless you want to change or update your photo too. 

You’ll also need to update your V5C (or Log Book) with your new name, and remember to notify any insurers. 

Need help changing your name?

Contact GloverPriest’s friendly Family Law team for straightforward legal and practical advice on your name change.