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Original poster

Surname change for 16 year old

9 replies

Deedpollnamechange · 07/12/2022 19:08

DS 16yo would like to change his surname from his father's to mine. We have had no contact with his father for over 10 years, I do not know his whereabouts. His father is on his birth certificate so has parental responsibility. If DS does an 'unenrolled' name change by deed poll, who will accept this? Or is he better off waiting until 18?

OP posts:
prh47bridge · 07/12/2022 20:21

As he is 16, he can change his name without needing anyone's consent. There is no need to wait until he is 18. An unenrolled change of name deed is unlikely to cause any problems. It will be accepted by the Passport Office, DVLA, etc.

Original poster
Deedpollnamechange · 08/12/2022 06:03

Thanks. Should he go through one of these websites to do it online? Can anyone recommend one? Then he just signs with witnesses?

OP posts:
HairyandLairy · 08/12/2022 07:41

My son did this - just copied the text as advised here on the gov website and got a couple of adults to witness it. Then used it to apply for a new passport and change his bank account details etc. It doesn't cost any money and you don't need a solicitor. Don't lose the piece of paper though as he might need it to prove his name change in the future!

www.gov.uk/change-name-deed-poll/make-an-adult-deed-poll

prh47bridge · 08/12/2022 07:51

Agree with HairyandLairy. There is no need to pay anything. The websites allowing you to do it online simply give you an official-looking document, but it is legally no more effective than a do-it-yourself change of name which costs nothing.

Original poster
Deedpollnamechange · 08/12/2022 20:34

Thanks! Will he have to change his passport straight away or can he change everything else first without it? I only got him an adult passport this year and it seems I'd have to pay all over again for a new one.

OP posts:
prh47bridge · 08/12/2022 21:05

The name on his passport should match his legal name, I'm afraid. It definitely needs to be updated before he uses it to go anywhere or as evidence of identity.

Mylittlesandwich · 08/12/2022 21:07

Deedpollnamechange · 08/12/2022 20:34

Thanks! Will he have to change his passport straight away or can he change everything else first without it? I only got him an adult passport this year and it seems I'd have to pay all over again for a new one.

You should technically change it because his name has changed but they're expensive. If it was me I'd get him his provisional driving license in his new name so he has that for ID and leave the passport.

Mylittlesandwich · 08/12/2022 21:08

He would have to travel (book flights, travel insurance etc in his old name)

Icedlatteplease · 08/12/2022 21:09

Quick hint Print it on thick paper and put it in one of those clear folders

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