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How-to · Step-by-step

How to change name on passport in the UK

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In short. Apply for a new British passport in the name you now use, sending the original wet-ink change of name deed plus one name-in-use document — there is no extra HM Passport Office surcharge.

You change name on passport by applying for a new 10-year British passport, not by amending the old book. Time left on the old passport is not added. Most people first sign an unenrolled [deed poll](instantdeedpoll.co.uk*), update a free [driving licence](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/change-name-driving-licence*), then apply. Instant Deed Poll is a document service — not HM Government. Full partner guide: [change name on passport](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/change-name-passport*).

Last reviewed:

·Estimated time: P3W·Cost: Passport £102 adult online / £66.50 child online; deed poll from £0 DIY or typically £14.99 PDF

What you'll need

  • Original wet-ink signed change of name deed (unenrolled deed poll)
  • One name-in-use document (driving licence issued after the deed, or a bank/employer/utility paper from the last 12 months)
  • Current British passport

The steps

  1. 01

    Confirm you need a new passport

    You need a new book to change name on passport, or if you cannot be recognised from the old photo. Skip it if you only changed address, job, title or marital status without changing your name, or if you can still travel in the old name. Official: www.gov.uk/changing-passport-information

    Official link →

  2. 02

    Get a change of name deed if you need one

    Skip the deed if you only took a spouse’s surname exactly as printed on the marriage or civil partnership certificate. Otherwise generate an unenrolled [adult deed poll](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/adult-deed-poll*) (typically £14.99) or use Instant Deed Poll’s [free template](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/free-deed-poll-template*). Print three or four copies.

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  3. 03

    Sign in wet ink with two independent witnesses

    Sign in your old and new names while two adults (18+, not relatives, partners or housemates) watch. Each signed printout is an original. HMPO rejects e-signatures and photocopies of already-signed deeds. Timing: [how long a deed poll takes](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/how-long-does-a-deed-poll-take*).

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  4. 04

    Get name-in-use evidence — usually the free DVLA update

    Update your driving licence first (free). A valid licence issued after the deed counts even if it is older than 12 months. Otherwise use a bank statement, employer letter or utility bill in the new name from the last 12 months. One piece is enough for a typical UK application.

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  5. 05

    Apply for the new British passport

    Apply online (£102 adult / £66.50 child standard 34-page) or on paper (£115.50 / £80). Send the original signed deed plus the name-in-use document. Fill in and sign in the name you want printed. No countersignature for a name-only change. There is no extra name-change surcharge. Fees: www.gov.uk/passport-fees

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  6. 06

    Notify everyone else and remake your will

    Work through bank, HMRC, employer, NHS and insurers. A deed poll does not rewrite a will — [make or remake it](swiftwill.co.uk*) in the new name. Full order: [who to notify](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/who-to-notify*). Do not book travel until you hold a valid passport in the name on the ticket.

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Common pitfalls

  • Sending a photocopy of an already-signed deed as name-in-use evidence
  • Using an e-signature or signing in only one name
  • Booking travel before the new passport arrives — the new number will differ
  • Paying for High Court enrolment when HMPO accepts unenrolled deeds
  • Skipping parental-responsibility consent on a child passport name change

FAQ

How do I change name on passport in the UK?
Apply for a new British passport with your original signed [change of name deed](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/change-of-name-deed*) plus one name-in-use document. Adult online is £102. Full guide: change name on passport.
Will HMPO accept a home-printed deed poll?
Yes if you then sign it in wet ink in both names with witnesses. Instant Deed Poll’s [adult PDF](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/adult-deed-poll*) uses government model wording.
Do I need to enrol my deed poll?
No. HMPO accepts unenrolled deeds. Compare [enrolled vs unenrolled](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/enrolled-vs-unenrolled-deed-poll*).
Can I change a child’s name on their passport?
Yes, with accepted evidence and consent from everyone with parental responsibility. Child online passport £66.50. Pack: [child deed poll](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/child-deed-poll*).
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