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How to change your name after divorce

At Deed Poll Department, we guide you through the seamless process of updating your name post-divorce, whether you’re reverting to a maiden name or adopting a new identity entirely, here’s how to navigate the legal requirements confidently.

Options for changing your name post-divorce

Using a decree absolute and marriage certificate

  • If reverting to your maiden name, many institutions (e.g., HMRC, DVLA) will accept your decree absolute and marriage certificate (showing your maiden name) as proof.
  • Organisations that previously knew your maiden name (e.g., pre-marriage employers) may not require these documents.

Creating a deed poll

  • A Deed Poll is essential if you’re adopting a new name unrelated to your maiden or married name.
  • Certain entities (e.g., banks, passport office) demand formal proof.
  • You want to modify first or middle names alongside your surname.

Steps to legally change your name after divorce

Step 1:

The first step in legally changing your name after divorce is deciding on your preferred name. You have the option to revert to a previous name, such as your maiden name, or adopt an entirely new name unrelated to your marital or birth name. Choosing a name that aligns with your personal or professional identity is important, as this will be reflected on official documents and records.

Step 2:

For greater flexibility, using a Deed Poll is recommended, especially if you are not reverting to your maiden name. While a decree absolute or marriage certificate may be sufficient for some organisations, others such as banks, HM Passport Office, and the DVLA may require a formal document proving your name change. To begin the process, apply for a Deed Poll through a recognised provider like Deed Poll Department. Our service ensures that your Deed Poll is legally valid and accepted by all UK government departments, banks, and other institutions. Sign the deed poll in two places: once with your current name and once with your new name. You’ll need two witnesses, aged 18 or over and not related to you, to sign as well. This makes your name change official.

Step 3:

Once your Deed Poll is signed, you must update your official records. This includes notifying key institutions such as HM Passport Office, the DVLA, banks, employers, and HMRC. For passport updates, you will need to submit your Deed Poll or decree absolute along with a passport application. Similarly, the DVLA requires an updated driving licence application reflecting your new name. Employers and financial institutions will also need a copy of your Deed Poll or decree absolute to update their records. Ensuring all documents are updated promptly will help prevent complications in legal, financial, and identification matters.

Why use a deed poll after divorce?

  • A Deed Poll is recognised by all UK institutions, even if your name isn’t linked to your pre-marital identity.
  • Banks and lenders often reject decree absolutes and insist on a Deed Poll for security.
  • A Deed Poll guarantees universal acceptance across all organisations.
  • Children’s Surnames: To update your child’s surname, deed poll can be used. You’ll need consent from all parties with parental responsibility. 
  • You haven’t got divorced, or you’re still in the process of getting divorced
  • You’ve got your decree nisi, but you haven’t got your decree absolute yet
  • You’ve lost your divorce documents

FAQs: changing your name post-divorce

Q: Do I need a Deed Poll to revert to my maiden name?
A: If reverting to a name on your birth/marriage certificate, your decree absolute may suffice. However, a Deed Poll ensures universal acceptance and simplifies updates.

Q: Can I change my children’s names after divorce?
A: Yes, but you’ll need consent from everyone with parental responsibility or a court order. A Deed Poll alone isn’t sufficient for minors.

Q: How long does a post-divorce name change take?
A: The Deed Poll is immediate. Updating records typically takes 2–4 weeks.

Q: What if I’m transgender and divorced?
A: A Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC) or Deed Poll can update your gender and name. See our transgender name change guide for details.

Q: What if my ex-partner objects to changing our child’s name?
A: Consent from all guardians with parental responsibility is mandatory. Without agreement, a court order is required.

Q: How do I update my passport after divorce?
A: Submit your decree absolute or Deed Poll with your application. Gov.uk guidance here.

Q: Is a Deed Poll valid for transgender name changes too?
A: Absolutely! A Deed Poll works alongside a Gender Recognition Certificate.