Deed Poll Ireland — How to Change Your Name
A deed poll is the most common way to legally change your name in Ireland. This guide walks you through the exact process — from drafting the document to updating all your official records.
What is a deed poll?
A deed poll is a legal document in which you declare that you are abandoning your former name and adopting a new one. In Ireland, it's the standard method for a legal name change when marriage or civil partnership certificates don't apply. Once signed and witnessed, it's legally valid and accepted by government agencies, banks, employers, and most other institutions across Ireland.
Note: If you changed your name after marriage, you don't need a deed poll — your marriage certificate is sufficient. See the marriage name change guide →
Step-by-step process
Prepare your deed poll
Draft the deed poll document declaring your change of name. It must include your old name, your new name, your address, and a declaration that you will use your new name exclusively.
Sign and witness it
Sign the deed poll in front of an independent witness (not a family member). The witness must also sign and provide their name, address, and occupation.
Make certified copies
Have photocopies certified by a solicitor or Commissioner for Oaths. Most institutions will want a certified copy rather than the original.
Optional: High Court enrolment
You can enrol your deed poll in the Central Office of the High Court for €30. This creates a public record and can be helpful for international purposes, but is optional for most people.
Start updating your documents
With your certified deed poll in hand, begin updating your passport, driving licence, Revenue/PPS records, and bank accounts. Use your personalised checklist to track every update.