Do I Need an Unenrolled or Enrolled Deed Poll?

If you’re thinking about changing your name in the UK, you may have come across two terms: unenrolled deed poll and enrolled deed poll. While both are legally recognised, they serve different purposes and suit different circumstances. This guide will help you understand the difference and decide which option is right for you.

What Is a Deed Poll?

A deed poll is a legal document that proves you’ve changed your name and intend to be known by your new name from now on. It can be used to update your passport, driving licence, bank records, and other official documents.

There are two types of deed polls in the UK:

Unenrolled Deed Poll
Enrolled Deed Poll

What Is an Unenrolled Deed Poll?

An unenrolled deed poll is a straightforward document that doesn’t need to be registered with any court. Once it’s correctly signed and witnessed, it becomes a legally valid way to prove your name change.

Key benefits:

Accepted by most UK organisations, including the Passport Office and DVLA.
Faster and cheaper than the enrolled option.
Private – your name change isn’t made public.
Ideal for personal reasons, such as marriage, divorce, gender affirmation, or simply preferring a different name.

At UK Deed Poll Service, this is the type of deed poll we specialise in. You can apply online in minutes, and we’ll issue a legally recognised document suitable for official use.

What Is an Enrolled Deed Poll?

An enrolled deed poll is recorded officially at the Royal Courts of Justice in London. Once enrolled, the name change becomes a matter of public record and is published in The London Gazette.

Why choose an enrolled deed poll?

Some institutions may ask for an enrolled deed poll for complex legal or inheritance matters.
It provides a public record, which can be useful for future legal reference.
You must be over 18 to apply for one.
The process is more time-consuming and expensive, with a government fee of £50.32 (as of 2025) and strict document requirements.

Which One Do You Need?

In most situations, an unenrolled deed poll is sufficient. It’s legally valid, widely accepted, and offers more privacy.

You might only need an enrolled deed poll if:

You’ve been asked for it by a specific organisation or authority.
You want a public and permanent record of your name change.
You’re dealing with sensitive legal matters that require extra verification.

Legal Validity: Are Both Accepted?

Yes, both forms are legally valid in the UK. An unenrolled deed poll is accepted by:

HM Passport Office
DVLA
Banks and building societies
Employers and utility providers
Schools, universities, and insurers

As long as your deed poll is correctly worded, signed, and witnessed, it will be recognised by almost all UK institutions.

Need Help Changing Your Name?

At UK Deed Poll Service, we make it easy to change your name with a legally recognised unenrolled deed poll:

Apply online in under 5 minutes
Choose a digital or printed document
Full guidance included
Money-back guarantee if rejected by official bodies