Getting married often marks the start of a new chapter, and for many people, that includes a change of name. If you’re thinking about changing your name after your wedding, you’re not alone. Whether you’re taking your partner’s surname, double-barrelling both names, or choosing something entirely new, there are several options available to make the change official.
At Change My Name, we make the process simple and affordable with a UK-recognised deed poll. Here’s everything you need to know about post-wedding name changes.
Can I Change My Name After Getting Married?
Yes, it’s very common. After marriage, people choose to change their name for a variety of personal, cultural, or practical reasons. Some popular options include:
-
- Taking your spouse’s surname
- Double-barrelling both surnames (e.g. Smith-Jones)
- Creating a blended surname
- Keeping your maiden name but changing your title (e.g. to “Mrs” or “Ms”)
- Choosing an entirely new surname as a couple
The route you take may depend on your personal preference, the type of wedding you had (civil or religious), and whether you’re in a same-sex or opposite-sex marriage.
Do I Need a Deed Poll to Change My Name After Marriage?
It depends on the type of name change:
- Taking your spouse’s surname – You can usually do this by presenting your original marriage certificate to organisations like HM Passport Office, your bank, and DVLA — no deed poll needed.
- Double-barrelling or combining surnames – Most organisations require a deed poll to recognise this change, especially if you’re not simply taking your partner’s name exactly as it appears on your marriage certificate.
- Creating a brand-new surname – If you and your partner choose a completely new name, a deed poll is required to make this officially recognised across all UK institutions.
- Changing your forename – Changing your first name after marriage (not just your surname) always requires a deed poll.
Name Change After Same-Sex Marriage
The same rules apply regardless of the gender of the couple. You can take your partner’s name, keep your own, or create a shared surname. If your chosen name isn’t directly covered by your marriage certificate, a deed poll will usually be needed.
What Happens After You Change Your Name?
Once your name has been changed by marriage certificate or deed poll, you’ll need to update it with key organisations:
-
- Passport Office
- Driving Licence (DVLA)
- HMRC
- Banks and building societies
- Employer and payroll
- Utilities and service providers
- GP and NHS records
- University, benefits, or professional bodies
Changing your name doesn’t happen automatically — you’ll need to contact each organisation individually. That’s where our Name Change Kit can help, providing templates and checklists to make the process faster.
Our Name Change Services
We offer three affordable, UK-recognised name change options:
All our documents are accepted by UK government departments, banks, and employers.
Changing your name after your wedding can be a meaningful way to reflect your new partnership. Whether you’re taking your partner’s surname or creating something unique together, make sure it’s officially recognised so you can update all your important records smoothly.
With Change My Name, you can get your deed poll quickly, easily, and affordably.
FAQs:
Not always. If you’re taking your spouse’s surname and your marriage certificate shows both of your full names, most organisations will accept that document as valid proof of your name change. A deed poll is only required if you’re doing something different, like double-barrelling names or creating a new surname.
Yes, and many couples choose to do so. However, you’ll usually need a deed poll if you’re combining or double-barrelling your surnames, as this isn’t shown on your marriage certificate.
That’s normal — UK marriage certificates do not show your new surname. They only show your name at the time of marriage. Organisations accept it as proof only if you’re adopting your spouse’s surname exactly.
Yes, but unlike women, men typically need a deed poll to take their spouse’s surname, as many institutions won’t accept a marriage certificate alone for male name changes.
You can start changing your name as soon as you receive your marriage certificate. Just be sure to update your details consistently across all documents and services.
