Choosing a New Name

 Restrictions When Choosing a New Name

• Your name must include a forename and a surname. A middle name is not a requirement, but there must be a clear distinction in the forename and surnames
• The name chosen must be pronounceable. Creativity is encouraged; however, a name must be able to be spoken clearly. Therefore, names such as ‘Zzzzzzzz’ is not legal.
• Your name should not include numbers or symbols. The inclusion of number or symbols renders a name unpronounceable and illegal.
• Only punctuation such as a hyphen or apostrophe should be included for name such as David-Jones or O’Connor. Typically, these punctuation marks are found in last names. But they are legal for forenames and middle names as well.
• Your chosen name should not be offensive, blasphemous, or insulting. If you are unsure of your name choice, we are happy to provide guidance. 
• Your name cannot lead others to think you have obtained an academic award, rank, or honour by choosing a title or name such as Lord, Lady, Doctor, Prince, Baron, Sir, etc. While these names are sometimes fun to bestow upon a pet, using them as a human is seen as fraud.

These are the only restrictions that apply with regard to choosing a new name. Otherwise, you can add a name, re-arrange your name, change you forename or surname, or remove names providing you are not doing so for fraudulent purposes.

Changing Your Title

If you decide to change your name by Deed Poll, you are also able to change your title at the same time.

So if you’re changing your name to include a general title such as Mr, Mrs, Ms, or Miss then there are no restrictions. If you are Transgender and want to change from Mr to Miss or vice versa, then this can be done without the need for any documentation. The UK also recognizes the gender-neutral title Mx.

However, if you were changing your title from a general title such as Miss or Mr to an academic title, then proof of the qualification acquired would be needed. For example if you have completed you Ph.D and would like to change your title to Dr, then the certificate would be required to produce the Deed Poll document.

Some people may be wishing to change their title to a title of nobility or honour, for example, Lord or Lady. In these circumstances, documentary evidence of the title is required in order for a Deed Poll to be issued. Purchased British titles are not accepted for Deed Poll documents.