Change Your Name on Your Driving Licence

Changing your name is a significant step that often follows key life changes—such as marriage, divorce, gender transition, or a personal decision to adopt a new identity. Once your name has changed, it is a legal requirement to update your identification documents, including your driving licence.

In the UK, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) requires formal evidence of your name change before issuing a new licence. In most cases, this evidence is provided in the form of a Deed Poll.

Why You Need a Deed Poll

A Deed Poll is a legal document that confirms you have:

Abandoned your previous name

Adopted a new name

Intend to use your new name at all times

If your name change is unrelated to marriage, civil partnership, or divorce, a Deed Poll is generally required by the DVLA. Without one, your request to update your licence may be declined.

For official guidance: https://www.gov.uk/change-name-driving-licence

When Is a Deed Poll Required?

You will typically need a Deed Poll to update your driving licence if:

You are adopting a new surname or forename

You are changing or adding middle names

You are combining surnames in a way not directly supported by a marriage or civil partnership certificate

In these cases, a Deed Poll acts as legally recognised evidence, accepted not only by the DVLA but by all UK government departments and organisations.

What Happens After You Get a Deed Poll?

Once your Deed Poll is signed and witnessed, you can begin notifying the DVLA and other organisations of your new name. The DVLA accepts either the original Deed Poll or a certified legal copy as part of the name change process.

You will also need to complete a D1 application form (available online or at most Post Offices) and return it along with your existing licence and supporting documents.

What to Do After You Receive Your Deed Poll

To ensure your name change is fully recognised, follow these steps once you receive your Deed Poll:

Sign and Witness the Deed Poll
Sign the document in front of two independent adult witnesses. They must also sign and provide their name, address, and occupation.
Update Your Driving Licence
Submit your signed Deed Poll with your completed D1 form and current driving licence to the DVLA. A certified copy may be used instead of the original if preferred.
Notify Other Organisations
In addition to the DVLA, you should notify:
- HM Passport Office
- Your bank and mortgage provider
- Employer or HR department
- NHS and your GP surgery
- Insurance, utility providers, and mobile phone companies
Keep Certified Copies
Some organisations require you to send a physical copy of your Deed Poll. Keeping certified duplicates means you won’t have to send the original multiple times.
Use Your New Name Consistently
From the date you execute your Deed Poll, your new name becomes your legal name. Ensure you use it consistently across all correspondence and applications going forward.

Your questions answered

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Deed Poll to change my name with the DVLA?

Yes. A properly executed Deed Poll is accepted by the DVLA as proof of a legal name change.

What if I changed my name after marriage or divorce?

If you are taking your spouse’s surname or reverting to a previous name, your marriage certificate or decree absolute may be sufficient. A Deed Poll is required for other types of name changes.

Will other organisations recognise my Deed Poll?

Yes. A Deed Poll is accepted by HM Passport Office, banks, employers, utility companies, and all other UK institutions.

Do I need to send the original Deed Poll to the DVLA?

Yes, unless you use a certified copy. This allows you to retain the original document while still meeting DVLA requirements.

How soon can I start using my new name?

Immediately. Once signed and witnessed, your Deed Poll makes your name change legally effective.

Summary

Updating your driving licence after a name change is an essential part of maintaining accurate legal records. For most changes that fall outside of marriage or divorce, a Deed Poll is required by the DVLA. Once completed, it enables you to update your licence and ensure your identity is consistent across all official documents.

Ready to Update Your Driving Licence?

You can apply for a Deed Poll online at any time. Once signed and witnessed, it can be used to update your driving licence and other important records.

👉 Apply for an Adult Deed Poll
👉 Contact Our Support Team if you have any questions

We’re here to support you with accurate documentation and step-by-step guidance throughout the process.