If you're looking to change your name back after a divorce in Victoria, it’s important to understand the steps involved. Knowing what documents you need and how to notify various agencies can make the process smoother.
This guide provides you with practical information on reverting to your maiden name or any other name, updating your driver licence, and notifying banks and other institutions.
| Registry | Births Deaths and Marriages Victoria |
|---|---|
| Usual evidence | Birth certificate + marriage certificate + divorce order — reverting to a birth name generally needs no formal name-change registration |
| Driver licence update | VicRoads — Free — update your name in person at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre and the new licence is posted in about 7 to 10 days (a replacement fee applies only if you can't hand in your existing card) |
| If reverting to a non-birth name | A registered change of name with BDM Victoria may be required — $148.60 to register a change of name, including the legal certificate (the $89.50 registration component is non-refundable; effective 1 July 2026) |
What documents you need in VIC
To change your name in Victoria, you will need specific documents. Generally, a combination of your birth certificate, marriage certificate, and divorce order will suffice.
If you wish to revert to a name that is not your birth name, you will need to register a change of name through Births, Deaths and Marriages Victoria. This process requires a legal certificate.
For more detailed information on the required documents, visit the Births Deaths and Marriages Victoria website.
Updating your Victoria driver licence
To update your driver licence in Victoria, visit a VicRoads Customer Service Centre. You will need to bring proof of your name change, such as your legal certificate.
Updating your name on your licence is free if you do it in person, and a new licence will be posted to you in about 7 to 10 days. Be aware that VicRoads requires you to notify them of the name change within 14 days.
For more details on the process, refer to VicRoads.
Notifying banks, super, Medicare and the rest
Once your name change is official, you'll need to notify various institutions. This includes banks, superannuation funds, Medicare, utilities, and loyalty programs.
Making these notifications is essential to ensure that all your records are updated. While it may feel like a long process, closing this chapter can be done efficiently with the right information.
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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 divorce. You can choose to keep your married name if you prefer.
Do I need my ex-partner's permission to revert to my former name in VIC?
No, you do not need your ex-partner's permission to revert to your former name in Victoria.
What if I don't have my original birth certificate?
If you do not have your original birth certificate, you may need to request a replacement from the relevant authorities before proceeding with your name change.
I want to move to a completely new surname after my divorce — what's involved in Victoria?
To adopt a completely new surname after your divorce, you will need to register a change of name with Births, Deaths and Marriages Victoria. There is a fee associated with this process.