Changing your name back after a divorce in the Northern Territory can be a straightforward process when you know what to do. This guide will help you understand the steps needed to revert to your maiden name or choose a new surname.
You'll need to gather certain documents and notify various institutions of your name change. Let's look at what you'll need and how to make the transition smoothly.
| Registry | Births, Deaths and Marriages NT |
|---|---|
| Usual evidence | Birth certificate + marriage certificate + divorce order — reverting to a birth name generally needs no formal name-change registration |
| Driver licence update | Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) — Free when you surrender your previous licence; a $26 replacement fee applies if you can't |
| If reverting to a non-birth name | A registered change of name with NT BDM may be required — $112 total for a change of name, which includes the $56 change of name certificate |
What documents you need in NT
In the Northern Territory, to revert to your maiden name, you will typically need your birth certificate, marriage certificate, and divorce order. These documents provide proof of your identity and the changes in your marital status.
If you are reverting to a name that is not your birth name, a registered change of name may be necessary. In that case, you must apply for a change of name through the Births, Deaths and Marriages NT.
Updating your Northern Territory driver licence
To update your Northern Territory driver licence, you will need to visit the Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR). Bring your updated identification documents, including your birth certificate and the divorce order.
If you surrender your previous licence, the update is free. However, if you don't have your old licence, a replacement fee will apply.
Notifying banks, super, Medicare and the rest
Once your name change is official, you should notify various institutions. This includes banks, superannuation funds, Medicare, utility providers, and any membership organisations.
Make a list of all the places where your name is registered. Closing this chapter of your life shouldn’t be a lengthy process filled with hold music. If you need assistance, consider using the Change Your Name service for a smoother experience.
Skip the paperwork marathon
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Get startedFrequently asked questions
Do I have to change my name back after divorce, or can I keep my married name?
You are not required to change your name back after a divorce. You can choose to keep your married name if that is your preference.
Do I need my ex-partner's permission to revert to my former name in NT?
No, you do not need your ex-partner's permission to revert to your former name in the Northern Territory.
What if I don't have my original birth certificate?
If you do not have your original birth certificate, you may need to apply for a replacement through the relevant registry. It's essential to have this document for your name change process.
I want to move to a completely new surname after my divorce — what's involved in Northern Territory?
If you wish to change to a completely new surname, you will need to apply for a change of name through the Births, Deaths and Marriages NT. There is a total fee of $112 for this service, which includes the cost of the change of name certificate.