Change Your Name After Divorce in the UK

Changing Your Name After Divorce

At Change My Name, we understand that divorce is a deeply personal transition. For many, changing your name is an important step in starting fresh and reclaiming your identity.

Whether you want to revert to your maiden name or choose a completely new name, our service makes the process fast, secure, and recognised throughout the UK.

Our Name Change Kit simplifies the process, providing:

• Step-by-step instructions

• Essential forms

• Personalised checklists for updating government agencies, banks, employers, utilities, and more

From your driver’s licence and passport to payroll and financial accounts, the kit guides you through each stage, ensuring nothing is missed. With ready-to-use templates, you can confidently manage your name change—all in one convenient package.

How to Change Your Name After Divorce

The process depends on the type of name change you want:

1. Reverting to Your Maiden Name

If your marriage and divorce occurred in the UK, and you have the necessary documents, you may revert to your maiden name without a Deed Poll. You will need:

• Original marriage certificate

• Original birth certificate

• Decree absolute

• A signed declaration stating your intention to revert to your maiden name

Missing Documents?

• You can order replacement certificates from the appropriate government office, or

• Apply for a Deed Poll, which is often simpler and faster

A Deed Poll is recognised by all UK organisations, including:

• HM Passport Office

• DVLA

• HMRC

• Banks and financial institutions

What If You’re Choosing a New Name?

If you are not reverting to your maiden name and want to adopt a new surname, a Deed Poll is required.

Our service ensures your new name is:

• Officially recognised across all UK agencies

• Fast and secure to process

Updating Your Name Across Official Records

After your name change, it’s important to notify:

• HM Passport Office

• DVLA (Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency)

• HMRC

• Employers and pension providers

• Banks, lenders, and credit card companies

• Local council (council tax, electoral register)

• Insurance providers

• Utility companies

• Healthcare providers (GP, dentist)

• Memberships and subscriptions

Note: While some updates are optional, updating your passport and driver’s licence is legally required.

Changing Your Name on a UK Passport After Divorce

To update your name on your passport, contact HM Passport Office and submit either your Deed Poll or your decree absolute and marriage/birth certificates. You will receive a brand new 10-year passport.

For full details, visit our Passport Name Change Guide.

HM Passport Office
PO Box 767, Southport, PR8 9PW
Tel: 0300 222 0000

There is no fee to update your name on your driving licence. Simply notify the DVLA with the appropriate documents.

Visit our Driving Licence Name Change Guide for full instructions.