Changing your name

What is a change of name deed?

A change of name deed is a legal document that proves a change of name. You can change any part of your name, add or remove names and hyphens, or change the spelling.

You do not have to follow a legal process to start using a new name. But you might need a change of name deed to apply for or to change official documents like your passport or driving licence.

What changes can I make to my name?

A person can change their forenames, surname or both if they wish. This cannot include titles such as Lord, Lady, Sir or Dame etc, or any symbols or numbers. 

Any new names chosen must not be offensive or rude.

The registration service reserves the absolute discretion to decline to witness and register a name considered to be inappropriate. 

Does East Riding registration service offer a name change service?

This service is a local service in which, for a fee, your name change document is drawn up and subsequently held locally for up to 10 years.

Will my name change document be accepted by official establishments or organisations?

Most organisations will accept a name change document as proof of a change of name, but we cannot guarantee it will be accepted by all organisations.

If you require one for a specific purpose we advise you to check if the document will be accepted first.

Can I change my name on my birth certificate?

No, your birth certificate cannot be changed. The name change document will need to be used in conjunction with your birth certificate.

Who can apply for a name change document?

East Riding Registration and Celebratory Service provide a name change service for any person aged 18 years or over. You can only apply to change your own name.

You can’t apply to change someone else’s name, such as your child’s name.

Find out more about changing your name if you are under 18:

GOV.UK - Changing your name by deed poll if you are under 18 (external website)

I am a British national living abroad, can I use this service?

Yes, you can, however, you must check that the name change will be accepted by the relevant authorities for the country which you currently live in. 

Which documents will I have to provide?

You will be asked to provide relevant documents to prove your current identity and if appropriate, to link your current name to any previous identities. The registration officer will discuss with you and advise on which documents are required when you make your appointment, you may be asked to bring one or more of the documents listed below:

• Birth certificate showing the name which is to be changed

• Passport

• Driving Licence/bank statement/council tax invoice/utility bill  (*provide one only)

•  Marriage/Civil partnership certificate

• Decree absolute/civil partnership dissolution

• Late spouse or civil partner’s death certificate.

 All documents provided must be originals (not photocopies) and will be returned to you after we have completed your name change document.

How much does a name change document cost? 

The cost is £75 which includes a change of name document and one deed. Additional deeds cost £10 each if purchased at the time of the original deed.

Payment will be arranged over the phone when the appointment is being made.

Please note: our fees are subject to increase on 1 April each year.

How do I arrange an appointment?

You will need to call us on (01482) 393600 or request a call back by sending your details by email to us at registration.service@eastriding.gov.uk. You will be asked to complete an application form and show various original documents depending on your personal circumstances.

 Appointments can be made at our Beverley, Bridlington, Cottingham, Goole and Pocklington registration offices for this service.

What happens at the appointment?

When we have checked your application form and documents, we will prepare your change of name deed document for you to sign. The registration officer will then complete and witness the document.

We will return all of your original documents to you along with the completed change of name deed.

What do I do if I have lost my name change document?

East Riding Registration Services will keep a copy of your deed for 10 years. You can purchase an additional copy. 

You will need to book an appointment. There is a fee of £30.

Where can I find out more information? 

If you have any further queries regarding name change documents please get in touch:

Email  registration.service@eastriding.gov.uk

Tel: (01482) 393600.