Prince William
Prince William may not inherit the Princes of Wales title. The Duke of Cambridge is pictured visiting the “Future Men” Fathers Development Programme on Feb. 14, 2019 in London, England. Stuart C. Wilson - WPA Pool/Getty Images

When Queen Elizabeth’s reign is over, Prince Charles will become the King of England, which would leave Prince William to take on his father’s former role. Although the 36-year-old will receive the responsibilities that once belonged to his dad, it doesn’t mean he will inherit the Prince of Wales title.

While most heirs to the throne hold the coveted title, the managing editor of Majesty Magazine, Joe Little revealed it will be up to Charles to decide whether he will honor William with the title.

“The first thing to point out is that William will not become Prince of Wales automatically. That’s a decision for his father when he becomes king,” Little told Daily Star Online.

“If he becomes Prince of Wales William will assume the title when he is perhaps 25 years older than his father was. In 1969 Charles was a few months away from 21, so this was a coming of age ceremony in a way.”

Even though Prince Charles could refuse to give William the honor, chances are, he will allow his son to become the Prince of Wales once he ascends the throne.

“William will no doubt have a ceremony of some sort, in Wales, but I predict it will be administrative rather than ceremonial. Pomp and pageantry at such a personal level is not his style,” Little said.

While Queen Elizabeth has not abdicated the throne, the Duke of Cambridge has been reportedly preparing to take on his father’s roles for months. Prince William is said to have attended secret meetings earlier this year and several others in 2018 at Charles’ royal residence, Clarence House.

“William is preparing to become Prince of Wales and King through his current duties as second-in-line to the throne,” Charlie Proctor, editor of Royal Central, previously revealed.

“He is championing causes he cares about, is holding meetings and audiences with various groups, and is being advised by senior aides.”

When Prince Charles and Princess Diana’s eldest son officially becomes the Duke of Cornwall, he will inherit the Duchy, an estimated £1billion ($1.3 billion USD) estate, along with a large property portfolio.

Charles currently uses the fund to cover the expenses of royal family members like William, Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry.