Changing your name after marriage in Victoria is an important step that ensures your identity is consistent across all your documents and accounts. The process begins with obtaining your official marriage certificate.
This document is essential as it serves as proof of your name change and is required by various organisations when you notify them of your new name.
| Registry | Births Deaths and Marriages Victoria |
|---|---|
| Marriage certificate fee | $59.10 for a legal marriage certificate, plus $10.60 express postage (effective 1 July 2026) |
| 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) |
| Legal basis | In Australia you can take your spouse's surname by marriage alone — no deed poll needed. Your official BDM marriage certificate is the evidence document. |
Step 1 — Get your official VIC marriage certificate
The first step is to obtain your official marriage certificate from Births Deaths and Marriages Victoria. This certificate is different from the ceremonial certificate you may have received during your wedding.
To order your legal marriage certificate, visit the Births Deaths and Marriages Victoria website. The fee for the certificate is $59.10, with an additional $10.60 for express postage, effective from 1 July 2026.
Every organisation you will contact about your name change will ask for this official document, so it’s crucial to secure it before proceeding further.
Step 2 — Update your Victoria driver licence
Next, update your Victoria driver licence with VicRoads. This step is important as your driver licence will become your primary photo ID under your new name.
To update your name, you need to visit a VicRoads Customer Service Centre in person. Bring your official marriage certificate and any other identification documents you may have. The update is free, and your new licence will be posted to you in about 7 to 10 days.
Remember, VicRoads requires you to notify them of your name change within 14 days of your marriage.
Step 3 — Notify everyone else
After updating your licence, it’s time to notify other organisations of your name change. This includes banks, superannuation funds, Medicare, the ATO, your passport, insurance companies, utilities, and any subscriptions you may have.
Our service, Change Your Name, can help simplify this process by providing guidance on what to do and who to contact.
Ensure you have your official marriage certificate handy, as many organisations will require it as proof of your name change.
What order should you do it in?
It's recommended to follow a specific order when making your name change notifications: start with your marriage certificate, then update your driver licence, followed by Medicare and the ATO, then your passport, and finally, all other organisations.
When gathering documents, keep in mind the distinction between originals and certified copies, especially when dealing with organisations that may require them. Also, consider keeping your old passport valid for any upcoming travel while you transition to your new name.
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Get startedFrequently asked questions
Do I need to change my name legally after marriage in VIC, or is the marriage certificate enough?
The marriage certificate serves as proof of your name change, but if you wish to have your name legally recognised across all documents, you may need to officially change your name through Births Deaths and Marriages Victoria.
How much does it cost to change your name after marriage in Victoria?
The cost for a legal marriage certificate is $59.10, plus $10.60 for express postage. Fees may vary for other name change services, so check with the relevant organisations.
How long does it take to get a marriage certificate from BDM Victoria?
Processing times can vary, so it's best to order your marriage certificate early. For specific timelines, refer to the official Births Deaths and Marriages Victoria website.
Can I keep my maiden name for work and use my married name elsewhere?
Yes, you can choose to use your maiden name for work while using your married name in other settings. Just be aware that some organisations may require consistency across your documents.
What if I married overseas but live in Victoria?
Overseas marriage certificates are often not accepted as valid evidence for a name change by Australian organisations. You may need to register your change of name through Births Deaths and Marriages Victoria. It's advisable to confirm with each organisation before relying on your overseas certificate.