Child Deed Poll

You can put your new name on public record by ‘enrolling’ it at the Royal Courts of Justice if you’re 18 or over. It costs £36 and cheques should be made payable to HMCTS Child Deed Poll.

If you’re under 18, follow the process for changing a child’s name to enrol.

Download the guidance and forms for changing an adult’s name – this includes the notification form for The Gazette.

Send your forms and documents to the Queen’s Bench Division.

Queen’s Bench Division
Enforcement Section
Room E15
The Royal Courts of Justice
Strand
London
WC2A 2LL

Change a child’s name

You can change the name of a child under 18 (sometimes called a ‘minor’) by ‘enrolling’ their new name at the Royal Courts of Justice.

If you’re 16 or 17 you can choose to make your own deed poll instead.

Enrol your child’s new name

You’ll need either:

You must try to reach agreement before you seek a court order.

If everyone with parental responsibility agrees

Download and complete the forms for changing a child’s name – this includes the notification form for The Gazette. You have to pay a fee of £36 to apply.

Send your forms and documents to the Queen’s Bench Division.

Queen’s Bench Division
Enforcement Section
Room E15
The Royal Courts of Justice
Strand
London
WC2A 2LL

Telephone: 020 7947 7772 (Option 5)
Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm
Find out about call charges

If you need a court order

Read the guidance on making an application to the court.

Fill in form C100 for a ‘specific issue order’.

Send your form to your nearest court that deals with child cases.

It costs £215 to apply for a court order. You may be able to get help with court fees if you’re on benefits or a low income.