Getting married after changing your name by deed poll
You can give notice and marry under a name you have adopted by deed poll, but the name on your notice needs to be consistent with your supporting documents. Bring the deed poll itself along with identity documents, and ideally update your passport to the new name before your appointment.
Deed poll is recognised evidence
A deed poll is a standard, legally recognised way of adopting a new name in England and Wales, and register offices are familiar with it as evidence of a name change. Bring the original deed poll document, not a photocopy.
Matching your other documents
If your passport or other identity document still shows your previous name, the register office needs to link the two using your deed poll. It is usually simpler to update your passport to your deed poll name before you give notice, so all your documents already agree.
Using your deed poll name on the day
The name on your notice and, eventually, your marriage certificate will reflect the name you have legally adopted. Make sure any documents relating to your ceremony — orders of service, witness details — are consistent with this name too, to avoid confusion.
What this means for you
- Bring the original deed poll to your notice appointment, alongside your identity and address evidence.
- Updating your passport in advance avoids the register office having to reconcile two different names on the day.
- Your marriage certificate will show the name you have legally adopted by deed poll.
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.