Getting married after you have already changed your name
If you have already changed your name — by deed poll, marriage, divorce or another route — before giving notice, your documents need to consistently show that name. Bring the evidence of the change alongside your identity and address documents so the register office can link your old and new names.
Why consistency matters
Registrars need to be confident that the person in front of them is the same person named on their supporting documents. If your passport shows one name and your utility bill shows another, that mismatch needs explaining with evidence, or your appointment may not be completed on the day.
What counts as evidence of a name change
A deed poll, a marriage or civil partnership certificate from a previous relationship, or a divorce order that reverted your name, are all standard ways to evidence a change. Bring the original document, not a copy.
Update documents where you can, in advance
Where possible, update your passport and other key identity documents to your current name before your notice appointment. This reduces the number of separate documents a registrar has to reconcile and speeds up the appointment.
What this means for you
- Bring the original evidence linking your old and new names, not just your current ID.
- Update your passport to your current name in advance if you can — it simplifies the appointment.
- Mismatched names across documents are a common reason appointments cannot be completed on the day.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Give notice at your local register office
- GOV.UK — Order a copy of a birth, death or marriage certificate
Last reviewed: 17 August 2026 · Next review due 17 November 2026
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Simply Married is an independent planning service, not a register office or government department. Confirm current requirements and fees with your own register office and on GOV.UK.