It’s not unheard of for the groom to take the brides surname or for the couple to ‘double barrel’ their surnames.

If you choose to take your partners name, you do not need to do anything legally after the marriage/civil partnership to change your name on your bills and bank account etc.  (It’s a common misconception that you have to complete a deed poll). 

Your marriage/civil partnership certificate is your proof of change of name, as long as you’ve taken one of the surnames shown on the certificate.

When you go to change your name anywhere, perhaps on your bank account or with HR at work, all you need to provide is your marriage/civil partnership certificate as proof of the change.

Some brides and grooms are particularly keen to change their passport to their married name before they go on honeymoon, and this is possible.  You need to complete a form – a PD2, which is available online at gov.uk or can be found at the post office. Fill it in, ask the officiant of your ceremony (Registrar or Clergy) to complete their part and then send it to the passport office, together with your current passport. This can be done up to 3 months before your marriage/civil partnership and there is a charge. Just remember the passport must match the name on any flights and bookings!

NOTE: It’s perfectly legal and acceptable to travel on your current passport on your honeymoon, in your maiden name.

Of course, it’s your choice not to change your name at all – it’s not required by law and you may choose to keep the name you’ve always had.

Tags: Name Change