How to Change a Child’s Name in the UK (2026 Guide)

Q: Does it change the birth certificate?

No. A deed poll changes the child’s name for current and future records such as passports, schools and GP records. The birth certificate remains a historical record.

Q: Can I add a father to the deed?

A deed poll is only used to change a name. To add a father to a birth certificate, you must contact the General Register Office.

Q: How Long Does It Take to Change a Child’s Name?

A child deed poll can usually be prepared within 24–48 hours once all required details and written consent have been received.

Q: How to Change a Child’s Name on a UK Passport?

You can apply to update a UK passport with the original deed poll and written consent from all parties with parental responsibility.

Changing a child’s name is a serious legal step in the UK. Unlike an adult name change, you cannot simply sign a document yourself. The law requires that everyone with Parental Responsibility (PR) is properly considered before a child’s name can be changed.

This guide explains the legal position under the Children Act 1989, including when consent is required, what happens if one parent refuses, and how to ensure a Child Deed Poll is prepared correctly. Whether you are updating a surname after separation, aligning a child’s name with a new family unit, or correcting an error, it is essential that the process is handled properly to avoid future disputes or rejected passport applications.

We outline the exact steps involved, explain common misunderstandings, and clarify when court approval may be necessary — so you can proceed confidently and lawfully.

Who Has Parental Responsibility?

Before ordering a Child Deed Poll, you must identify who needs to sign the consent form. PR is generally held by:

The Mother

Always has Parental Responsibility automatically from birth under UK law, regardless of whether she is married or listed with the father on the birth certificate.

The Father

Has Parental Responsibility if married to the mother at the time of birth, or if named on the birth certificate (for births registered after 1 December 2003 in England & Wales, and after 4 May 2006 in Scotland).

The Golden Rule

To change a Child’s Name by Deed Poll, you must obtain the written consent of every person who holds Parental Responsibility for that child. Most organisations, including HM Passport Office and schools, will require written consent from all individuals with parental responsibility. If you are unsure who holds parental responsibility, we recommend clarifying this before ordering a Child Deed Poll.

When Consent is Missing

If the other parent refuses to give consent, or if their whereabouts are unknown, you cannot use a standard Deed Poll service. You will likely need to apply for a Specific Issue Order from the Family Court.

Can I Change My Child’s Surname Without the Father’s Consent?

In most cases, you cannot change your child’s surname without the consent of everyone who holds parental responsibility. Under UK law, if a father has parental responsibility, his written consent is normally required before a child’s surname can be legally changed. This applies whether you are married, separated, or no longer in contact.

Important Warning

Changing a child’s name without the consent of all individuals with parental responsibility may not be legally valid and could breach the Children Act 1989.

Parental Responsibility is defined under the Children Act 1989 (Section 3).

The Process for 16 & 17 Year Olds

Once a young person reaches the age of 16, the rules change significantly. They are considered old enough to choose their own name.

No Consent Needed
A 16 or 17-year-old can change their name without their parents' permission using an Adult Deed Poll.
Exception: Court Orders
If there is an existing Court Order specifically forbidding a name change, this must be discharged first.

The Step-by-Step Process

Step 1 – Confirm Parental Responsibility
Identify every individual who holds parental responsibility (PR). This determines who must give written consent before the name change can proceed.
Step 2 – Obtain Written Consent
Written consent must be provided by all individuals with PR. Without this, most organisations will not recognise the change.
Step 3 – Prepare and Sign the Child Deed Poll
The deed poll must be correctly drafted and signed in accordance with UK requirements to ensure acceptance by official bodies.
Step 4 – Update Official Records
Once completed, you can update your child’s passport (see our step-by-step passport guide), school records, GP, and other official documentation.

Protecting Your Family's Future

We provide professionally drafted Child Deed Polls and the necessary Consent Forms to ensure your child's identity is secure.

Apply for a Child Deed Poll

Child Name Change FAQs

Does it change the birth certificate?

No. A Deed Poll changes the Child’s Name for all current and future records (Passport, GP, School), but the birth certificate remains as a historical record of the name at birth. If you need to update the birth certificate, you must contact the General Register Office directly.

Can I add a father to the deed?

A Deed Poll is only for changing names. If you wish to add a father to a birth certificate to grant him PR, you must contact the General Register Office.

How Long Does It Take to Change a Child’s Name?

A Child Deed Poll can usually be prepared within 24–48 hours once all required details and written consent from everyone with parental responsibility have been received.

How to Change a Child’s Name on a UK Passport?

Once a child’s name has been changed by deed poll — with consent from everyone who holds parental responsibility — you can apply to update their UK passport.

HM Passport Office will normally require the original deed poll, written consent from all parties with parental responsibility, and the child’s current passport (if they have one). For full step-by-step instructions, see our guide: 👉 How to Change a Child’s Name on a UK Passport (2026 Guide)