Can I Change My Name to Anything? UK Name Restrictions
Quick answer
Who should skip this
Skip a deed poll if you only want to change a title such as Mrs to Ms — a title is not your legal name. Ask the organisation; do not pay a £4 title add-on. Skip us if you want a name HMPO would refuse.
Checked by Sarah Ellison, paralegal — last reviewed 22 August 2026
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What names will be refused?
HM Passport Office is the practical gatekeeper. Its caseworker guidance refuses names that are vulgar, offensive or blasphemous; that promote crime, hatred or drugs; that include numbers, symbols or invented punctuation; that imply unearned titles or honours; that infringe a trade mark; or that are frivolous enough to bring the system into disrepute. Banks and the DVLA usually follow.
If HMPO would refuse it, do not buy a deed poll hoping a nicer printer will help. Eligibility: who can change their name.
Is a title part of my legal name?
No. Mr, Mrs, Ms, Mx, Dr, Lord and similar styles are forms of address, not the name a deed poll records. Changing Mrs to Ms is done by asking each organisation — it is not a name change and does not need a deed poll or a paid title extra. Posted specialists sometimes sell that for £4; skip it.
HMPO will also refuse a forename or surname that implies a title you do not hold. Comparison of extras: InstantDeedPoll vs UK Deed Poll Service.
What is definitely allowed?
Everything else. You can take a completely new surname, double-barrel two surnames with or without a hyphen, add or remove middle names, change spelling, anglicise a name, revert to a family name, or adopt a name from another culture. You do not need a reason, and you never have to justify the choice on the deed.
See double-barrelling and middle names. The deed poll simply records the exact characters you adopt.
What happens if I pick a borderline name?
The deed can still be validly executed; restrictions bite when an organisation applies its acceptance policy. If HMPO, the DVLA, HMRC or a UK bank refuses our document solely because of its wording, we refund you. If they object to the name you chose, they will say so, and you can execute a fresh deed with an acceptable name.
Guarantee detail is on the adult deed poll page and in the refund policy. DIY wording: free template.
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