Change Your Name After Divorce in the UK [2026 Guide]
Your complete guide to reverting to your maiden name or choosing a new name after divorce
Quick Answer
After divorce, you can revert to your maiden name or any previous name for free using your decree absolute. However, if you want to change to a completely new name that you've never used before, you'll need a deed poll.
Do I Need a Deed Poll After Divorce?
The answer depends on what name you want to use:
NO Deed Poll Needed
- ✓ Returning to maiden name
- ✓ Using a previous married name
- ✓ Any name you legally used before
Your decree absolute (final divorce order) is proof enough for these changes.
Deed Poll Required
- • Changing to a completely new name
- • Adopting a partner's surname (without marriage)
- • Creating a double-barrelled name
- • Any name never used before
You'll need an official deed poll certificate.
Using Your Decree Absolute to Change Your Name
Your decree absolute (or final divorce order in Scotland) is a powerful legal document. Most UK organizations will accept it as proof of your name change back to your maiden name or any previous name.
Important Note
Keep your decree absolute safe! Some organizations require the original document, and replacement copies from the courts can take time and cost £11. Consider getting certified copies made at a solicitor's office.
Step-by-Step: Changing Your Name After Divorce
Step 1: Obtain Your Decree Absolute
This is issued by the court 6 weeks and 1 day after your decree nisi (or conditional order). If you've lost it, you can apply for a copy through the court that handled your divorce.
Step 2: Decide on Your New Name
You have several options:
- Return to your maiden name (most common)
- Keep your married name
- Revert to a previous married name
- Choose a completely new name (requires deed poll)
Step 3: Update Your Passport
Start with your passport as it's the most important ID document:
- Complete passport application form
- Submit decree absolute as proof
- Cost: £82.50 (standard adult renewal)
- Processing time: 3-10 weeks
Step 4: Update Your Driving License
Contact DVLA with your decree absolute. This is free and can be done online or by post. Your photocard will be updated but you'll keep the same license number.
Step 5: Notify Financial Institutions
Update your name with:
- Banks and building societies
- Credit card companies
- Mortgage providers
- Pension providers
- Insurance companies
Step 6: Update Government Records
Notify these agencies:
- HMRC (for tax records and National Insurance)
- DWP (if claiming benefits)
- Electoral register
- Council tax
- NHS and your GP surgery
Step 7: Update Utilities and Services
Don't forget:
- Energy suppliers
- Water company
- Phone and broadband providers
- TV License
- Employer/payroll
When You Need a Deed Poll Instead
If you're not reverting to a previously used name, you'll need a deed poll. Common scenarios include:
- New relationship: You're taking a new partner's surname without getting married
- Fresh start: You want a completely new surname that you've never used
- Hyphenated name: You want to combine your maiden name with a new name
- Different first name: You want to change your forename as well
Costs and Timeline
| Task | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Decree absolute copy | £11 | 2-3 weeks |
| Deed poll (if needed) | £14.99 - £48.99 | Instant - 5 days |
| Passport update | £82.50 | 3-10 weeks |
| Driving license update | FREE | 3 weeks |
| Bank/credit cards | FREE | 1-2 weeks |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my children's surnames after divorce?
This is more complicated. If you have sole parental responsibility, you can change your child's name with a deed poll. However, if your ex-partner also has parental responsibility, you'll need their written consent or a court order. Most courts prefer children to keep their established surname unless there are compelling reasons.
How long does the name change process take?
The entire process typically takes 2-3 months. Your passport is usually the longest wait (up to 10 weeks), while most other updates can be completed within 2-4 weeks. If you need to travel urgently, you can use the fast-track passport service.
Will my decree absolute show both my married and maiden names?
Yes, your decree absolute will show your name at the time of marriage and your married name, which is why it serves as proof of your name change back to your maiden name.
Can I keep my married name after divorce?
Absolutely. There's no legal requirement to change your name after divorce. Many people choose to keep their married name, especially if they have children or an established professional reputation.
Do I need my ex-partner's permission to change my name?
No. As an adult, you can change your name without anyone's permission. However, if you're changing children's names, you'll need consent from anyone with parental responsibility.
What if I've been divorced multiple times?
You can revert to any name you've previously used legally, including maiden names or previous married names. You'll need the relevant decree absolute or marriage certificate as proof. If you want a name you've never used, you'll need a deed poll.
Need a Deed Poll for Your Name Change?
If you need to change to a new name after your divorce, get your official deed poll certificate in minutes. Fast and affordable, with acceptance subject to each organisation's evidence policy.