Changing back to your maiden name after divorce

Written by CalmSplit Editorial TeamReviewed by Ramani GillLast reviewed 13 August 2026England & Wales

You can revert to your maiden name without any court process. Most organisations accept your birth certificate together with your marriage certificate or Final Order.

CalmSplit handles the divorce itself for a one-off £159, and this checklist covers the admin that follows.

  • No deed poll needed in most cases after the Final Order
  • Update the passport and driving licence first
  • Keep certified copies rather than posting originals repeatedly
CalmSplit fee
£159one-off, per person

One-off CalmSplit fee. HMCTS court fees are paid separately to the court.

Check suitability

Start free and pay the one-off £159 when you are ready to prepare your application.

See how it works

The order to do it in

  • Passport, using the HM Passport Office change of name process
  • Driving licence with DVLA
  • Bank, building society and mortgage accounts
  • Employer, payroll and pension providers
  • HMRC, GP, dentist and insurers
  • Utilities, tenancy or Land Registry title, and your will

Documents organisations accept

Typically your birth certificate plus the Final Order. Some ask for the marriage certificate as well, to link the two names. A few insist on a deed poll, which is inexpensive to obtain.

Your children's names

Reverting your own surname does not change your children's. That needs consent from everyone with parental responsibility or a court order.

Frequently asked questions

No. You can revert years later if you wish.

Related CalmSplit pages

Check suitability

Start free and pay the one-off £159 when you are ready to prepare your application.

Start free
Start your divorce – £159