When can you call yourself 'doctor'?

[drjohn]

Apologies if this is in the wrong section, it seemed the most appropriate.

A 2-part question:

1. When is a person entitled to call themselves 'doctor' - excluding medical doctors. Is it upon completion of a PhD viva, final thesis submission or after the degree ceremony? In my experience it's after passing the viva but is this true in general? I'm guessing it's an informal thing until you get it in writing.

2. What are the legal implications of calling yourself 'doctor' with, for example, a bought 'degree' from the internet.

PS. I'm a PhD doctor and didn't use the title in any official way until I had it in writing, just to be on the safe side!

[spudqueen]

Dr Spudqueen (Phd) reckons that it's when it's confirmed in writing by the University.

[spudqueen]

Sorry, it's Mr Spudqueen that's the Phd, not me!

[horsestache1]

And Dr Dolittle!

I also have a PhD aqnd never use the title Dr, never ever, ahhhhhhh never OK