Is there a time limit on changing your name after marriage UK?
Sarah Smith
Published Jan 13, 2026
There's not a time limit on changing your name, and many choose to keep their maiden name.
Is there a deadline to change name after marriage UK?
The good news is that there is no time limit to changing names after marriage. While most brides make the transition to their new name within 2-3 months of their wedding, some brides may take years. If you decide to take your spouse's name in place of your own surname the process is very straightforward.
Is there a time limit to change your name after marriage?
How long do you have to change your name after getting married? There's no exact time limit for changing your name after getting married. People change their names whenever they are ready to. However, some workplaces request to be informed within 60 days or so after the change of name.
Is there a time limit on changing your name after divorce UK?
There is no time limit to changing your name after divorce.
Who do you have to inform when you change your name UK?
Driving licence: You will need to inform the DVLA if you have changed your name by filling in the relevant form and providing supporting evidence of the change. The police: If you have a criminal record the police will also need to be notified of your new name.
21 related questions foundCan you use a different name without legally changing it UK?
As long as it is not done for fraudulent or other unlawful purposes, a person may assume any forename without any formalities and can identify themselves with, and be identified by, the assumed name. There is some uncertainty in English law as to whether a Christian (Baptismal) forename can be legally displaced.
How many times can you change your name in UK?
There is a limit to the number of times that you can record a change of name with the Registrar General: only one change of forename(s) (including a middle name) and one change of surname(s) may be recorded for a child under 16 years of age.
Can you go back to maiden name after divorce?
Can I keep my married name when divorced? Many women choose to change their name back to their maiden name after getting divorced, and as explained above, this is entirely possible.
How do I revert back to my maiden name after divorce?
The good news is that if you are simply reverting to your maiden name after a divorce, then many institutions will accept a copy of your birth certificate, marriage certificate, decree absolute and a signed declaration that you are reverting your maiden name for all purposes.
Can I keep my ex husband's last name?
What's good ex-etiquette? A After a divorce a woman is free to keep her ex-husband's last name, go back to her maiden name or choose a completely new name. Although name changes are controlled by state law, most states allow individuals to change their name pretty easily.
How do I go about changing my last name after marriage?
How to Change Your Name in 10 Steps
- Get Your Marriage License and Certified Copies. ...
- Update Your Social Security Card. ...
- Get a New Driver's License. ...
- Get a New Passport and Travel Documents. ...
- Change the Name on Your Bank Accounts. ...
- Change the Name on Your Credit Cards. ...
- Provide Your New Name and Banking Information to Your Employer.
Do I have to tell HMRC when I get married?
You'll need to tell HMRC if you: get married or form a civil partnership. start getting a second income. become – or stop being – self-employed.
Can I keep my maiden name after marriage?
You're legally allowed to keep your maiden (or current) name for work or professional reasons, and use your new married name socially or for family-related purposes. Even if you've changed your name by deed poll you're perfectly entitled to use a different one at work.
Can I keep my maiden name after marriage UK?
Traditionally in the UK, women take the husband's surname, but they may also choose to keep their maiden name as a middle name, continue using their maiden name, change to a double barrelled version of both spouses' surnames, or create a new surname to reflect their union.
Who do I need to inform when I get married UK?
Relationship or family changes
Tell HM Revenue and Customs ( HMRC ) if: you get married or form a civil partnership. you divorce, separate or stop living with your husband, wife or partner.
Do I need to change my passport after marriage?
You can get a new passport in your new name either before or after the ceremony. The name on your passport must match the one you use when you book your travel.
Are you still Mrs after divorce?
You can use any title you wish. You might like to be called "Mrs." even after divorce, or you may prefer "Ms" or "Miss".
How much does it cost to change your name?
Name changes cost anywhere from under $100 to more than $500, depending on your state. In many states, fees vary in each county, so check with your local probate, family, or district court clerk. Many states still have fees well under $100.
Can I use my passport with my married name after divorce?
US Citizens: United States Citizens who change their name due to marriage, divorce, or because of any other circumstance may travel using your United States passport or other Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative approved document in your prior name provided you bring proof of your name progression such as; a marriage ...
How do I change my name after marriage UK?
To update your new name, you'll need to apply for a new UK passport with supporting documents as evidence of your name change. The document could be a marriage certificate or a deed poll, depending on your new name. You'll apply for a new passport from HM (Her Majesty's) Passport Office.
How do I change my name back to my maiden name UK?
All you need to revert your ID and bank accounts back to your maiden name after you divorce is your decree absolute and your marriage certificate. Alternatively, you can change your name by deed poll and present this document instead.
Can I change back to my maiden name without a divorce UK?
You don't need to be divorced to revert to your maiden name. You can be known by your maiden name at any time.
How long does a name change take UK?
Although the whole process can be accomplished in three weeks, most people take between four and eight weeks. To see a list of the record holders you may need to notify of your name change, please click on this link.
Do you need a lawyer to change your name?
You do not need to follow any legal procedure in order to change your name. You may call yourself whatever you choose as long as you are not defrauding anyone.
What names are illegal UK?
The UK has no law restricting names, but names that contain obscenities, numerals, misleading titles, or are impossible to pronounce are likely to be rejected by the Registering Officer, when registering a child.