Scotland has historically used a different legal instrument for name changes: the statutory declaration, a sworn statement made before a solicitor or justice of the peace. However, a deed poll produced in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland is accepted by all major UK-wide organisations — including the Passport Office, DVLA, HMRC, and most banks — regardless of whether you live in Scotland. A deed poll is not a less valid document simply because it was not produced as a statutory declaration.
For organisations that are specifically Scottish — such as the National Records of Scotland (for birth certificate queries) or Scottish local councils — a statutory declaration may be preferred and in some cases required. For day-to-day life, however, a deed poll is broadly accepted and is the faster and more affordable option. Many people in Scotland use an online deed poll service and find it works without issue for their passport, driving licence, bank, and employer.
If you want the maximum acceptance across all Scottish organisations, a solicitor-produced statutory declaration is the traditional route. If your priority is speed, cost, and dealing with UK-wide organisations, a deed poll from this service is the practical choice. Both are legally recognised instruments for evidencing a name change.