Changing Your Name After the Wedding
Vows Shared, Rings Exchanged. Now You’re Ready To Change Your Name.
Cheers to your newlywed bliss! Beyond the confetti and vows, there's a thoughtful decision to make: to change your name or not to change your name. Whether you're considering a name change or you’re already knee-deep in the paperwork, this guide offers insights, tips, and a personal touch to help you navigate the process smoothly.
Who knew there were so many options to choose from when it comes to changing your name?
Me, of course! There are eight different options, although before I became a celebrant, I only would only have been able to list three of these options.
Take Your Spouse's Last Name:
The traditional option is for one spouse to take the other's last name. Historically, this has been the bride, but thankfully, because Australia’s marriage laws have changed, now this could be the bride, the groom, or the life-partner.
Hyphenate Your Last Names:
You may choose to hyphenate your last names, combining both your surnames with a hyphen. For example, if one of you has the last name Smith and the other has Ryan, the new name might be Smith-Ryan.
Create a New Last Name:
You also have the option to create a completely new last name that is a combination of, or, entirely distinct from your original surnames.
Maintain Separate Last Names
You may decide to keep your own last names, particularly if you have established professional identities or have other personal reasons for maintaining your current surnames.
Use Both Last Names Without Hyphenation:
Another option is for you to use both last names without a hyphen. This is sometimes referred to as a double-barreled or unhyphenated last name.
Change Your Middle Name:
In addition to changing the last name, you could choose to modify or change your middle name as part of the overall name change process.
Combine Your Last Names in a Blended Format:
You may opt for a blended last name, taking portions of each partner's last name to create a new, blended surname. This has the potential for hysterical laughter, before you decide on the perfect combination.
Keep Original Name Professionally:
Finally, you may choose to keep your original last name professionally but use the new name socially. This approach allows for consistency in the workplace, while embracing a new identity in personal life.
Now, DO NOT get over excited and book flights for your honeymoon in your new married name, unless you have your new passport. The name on your current passport is the name you MUST book your overseas travel in.
Let your name changing adventure begin!
So, what is the process?
The first thing you need to do is obtain a copy of your official marriage certificate. You can apply for this through the Registry of Births, Deaths, and Marriages (BDM) in your state or territory. Your registered celebrant (me, of course), must lodge all of the legal documents with BDM within 14 days of the solemnisation of your wedding.
There are 3 types of marriage certificate — official, commemorative and ceremonial. Only an official marriage certificate can be used for identification purposes and proof of change of name through marriage. You can also use your official marriage certificate when applying to government agencies and banks.
The ceremonial marriage certificate given to you by your registered celebrant is not official. You can't use it to prove your relationship.
Order your official QLD Marriage Certificate now!
I’ve got my official marriage certificate, so where should I start? What should I take with me?
I would suggest getting a passport folder for all the documents you need for changing your name, and take the entire folder with you.
Birth Certificate, Official Marriage Certificate, Current Driver’s Licence, Current Passport, Previous Divorce Decree (if applicable), Medicare Card, & Bank and/or Credit Cards
It is always better to have more ID documents than you need. In order, here are my top four name changes.
I would also suggest setting up your new email address before you head off, as you can update this information on your account/s at the same time.
Driver’s Licence [Find out more]
**Current Drivers Licence, Official Marriage Certificate, Birth Certificate or Passport. You won’t get your new licence on the spot, but you will be given a temporary driver’s licence document with all the information you need.
Bank account/s [Check your bank’s website]
**New Driver’s Licence / Temporary driver’s licence document, Official Marriage Certificate / Current Bank & Credit Cards
Medicare Card [Find out more]
**New Driver’s Licence / Temporary driver’s licence document, Official Marriage Certificate / Current Medicare card
Passport [Find out more]
**Current or Expired Passport, New Driver’s Licence / Temporary driver’s licence document, Official Marriage Certificate
Congratulations, that’s the easy part done.
There are still so many more places you need to change your name. You can use online services that can streamline this process for you, but they are not free. I’m a little old fashioned/OCD/a control freak - take your pick - and love a good checklist. So I’ve got just the checklist you need. That way, you can take your time, do it when it’s convenient, and keep track of where you are at.
Download your “Name Changing Checklist” now!
"As you take on a new name in marriage, I'm not just changing the letters; your adding a new chapter to your story. It's not just about a different title; it's about the shared journey, the laughs, and the love that come with it.
Here's to a new name and a lifetime of adventures together."
