# Can I change my child’s name by deed poll in the UK?

> Quick answer · Last updated 22 July 2026

Canonical HTML: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/can-i-change-my-childs-name-by-deed-poll/
Markdown mirror: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/can-i-change-my-childs-name-by-deed-poll.md

## In short

Yes if everyone with parental responsibility agrees. Under 16 needs a [child deed poll](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/child-deed-poll/) (or enrolled RCJ route); from 16 people usually sign their own [adult deed poll](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/adult-deed-poll/). Without full consent you need a court order.

In England and Wales a parent or guardian executes an unenrolled [child deed poll](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/child-deed-poll/) on the child’s behalf, signed in wet ink before two independent adult witnesses. Keep signed parental-responsibility consent letters with the document — HM Passport Office and schools often ask for them. Instant Deed Poll’s child pack (typically around £17.99) includes those consent letters.

From age 16, the young person normally executes their own [adult deed poll](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/adult-deed-poll/) (Instant Deed Poll from around £14.99). Under 16, everyone with parental responsibility must consent. If someone refuses, the usual court route is a Specific Issue Order (form C100) — a judge decides on the child’s welfare, not on parental preference alone.

Optional enrolment at the Royal Courts of Justice creates a Gazette record and needs forms for a minor plus parental agreement — most families never enrol. Northern Ireland also offers a separate GRONI “record a change of name” route with its own age and fee rules: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/recording-change-name

## Related

- [Change a child’s name (guide)](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/change-childs-name-deed-poll-uk/)
- [Deed poll name change (UK)](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/deed-poll-name-change-uk/)
- [Do I need a deed poll?](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/do-i-need-a-deed-poll-uk/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/change-name-deed-poll

---

Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.