Married Name Change

After getting married, you need to report your new name to the relevant government bodies, including the Social Security Administration. If you drive, you will need to update your details with your state DMV, as well. Here you will find information regarding how to change your name with the Social Security Administration, the DMV and other important offices.

Marriage Certificate

Before you can legally change your name, you must obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate. The process to obtain your certificate is specific to the county you were married in. You must have a certified copy before changing your name with the Social Security Administration.

Social Security Administration

If you recently changed your name because of marriage, you need to notify the Social Security Administration in order to receive a social security card with your new name. There is no fee for this service.

Here is how to change your name with the Social Security Administration:

• First, print off an Application for a Social Security Card, also known as Form SS-5, and fill out the details.
• Next, take your completed form to your local Social Security Administration office. You can find your nearest location online here. Provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate as evidence of your name change. As proof of identity, you will also need to show a U.S. passport, a U.S. driver license or a state-issued ID card.
• You will receive a new Social Security card with your name change in the mail.

Be sure to change your name with the Social Security Administration before the DMV. After changing your Social Security information, allow 48 hours for your information to update in the DMV system before going to update your driver license.

The DMV

After visiting the Social Security Administration, you will need to notify your state’s motor vehicle department of your marriage to receive an updated driver license with your new name. All requests should be made in person; you cannot change your name with your state’s office by mail or online.

Here's how to update your details with your DMV.

• First, locate your nearest state DMV office. You can do this by entering your ZIP code online here.
• Visit your local office within 30 days of changing your name with the SSA. When you arrive, you will need to show your marriage certificate to prove your name change. Be sure to bring the original certificate or a certified copy.

You also need to provide a document that confirms your identity. You can use one of the following:

• A passport
• A Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization
• A United States Uniformed Services Privilege and Identification Card
• A Temporary or Permanent Resident Identification Card

The staff member processing your application will also ask to see your current driver license with your previous name.

Expect to pay a license replacement fee to change the name on your driver license. Your marriage name change won't affect the expiration date on your license.

Once you have received your license, throw your old one away.

Changing Your Name Elsewhere

Once you have updated your details with the Social Security Administration and DMV, you can report your married name change to other government agencies, your employer, your bank, utility companies, insurance companies and your health care provider.

Third party companies offer helpful services to assist in changing your name with various agencies and offices.