Changing Your Name | DMV.org
Update your name on your driver’s license/ID, vehicle title, and registration after marriage, divorce, court order, or adoption. This guide explains nationwide steps, typical fees, documents, and timelines, plus a state selector for exact requirements and forms.
Start Your Name Change on DMV Records:
- Update your Social Security record first (SSA name change) so DMV systems can verify your new legal name.
- Gather your court-accepted proof (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption decree) and identity documents.
- Visit your state’s DMV page using the selector to complete the driver’s license/ID name change (often in person) and pay the standard duplicate/renewal fee.
- Update your vehicle title and registration—bring/title application and lien release (if any); pay the title/registration correction fees.
Eligibility
- You have a legal name change due to marriage, divorce, court order, or adoption.
- Your Social Security record has been updated to your new name (most states verify SSA before issuing a credential).
- Your driver’s license is valid or eligible for duplicate/renewal (suspensions must be cleared first).
- You can present original or certified documents proving the name change and identity.
- For title updates: you are the titled owner or have lienholder authorization if a lien exists.
Documents
- Proof of Legal Name Change
- Current Driver’s License/ID
- Proof of Identity and Date of Birth
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Proof of Residency (for Some States/REAL ID)
- Vehicle Title and Registration
Fees & Costs
- Fee — $10–$35 (state average) Driver’s license/ID duplicate or name-change issuance
- Fee — $20–$60 Driver’s license renewal with name change (if required instead of duplicate)
- Fee — $5–$25 Title correction or duplicate title reflecting new name
- Fee — $3–$25 Registration card duplicate or correction
- Fee — $1–$10 Record change or mailing/processing surcharge (where applicable)
FAQ
Do I need to update SSA before the DMV?
Yes. Most DMVs electronically verify your name with the Social Security Administration. Update SSA first so your DMV transaction does not fail. Bring proof of SSN if your state requires it.
Can I change my name online?
Some states allow online requests for duplicates with a name change if SSA is updated and no other changes are needed. Many still require an in-person visit for a new photo or REAL ID re-verification.
How much does it cost to change my name on my license and title?
Typical costs: license/ID duplicate $10–$35, title correction $5–$25, registration card duplicate $3–$25. Exact fees depend on your state and whether a renewal is required.
What documents are accepted as proof of a legal name change?
A certified marriage certificate, divorce decree explicitly restoring your prior name, court order granting a name change, or adoption decree. Photocopies are not accepted in many states unless specifically allowed.
How long do I have to update my DMV records?
Most states require updates within 10–60 days of the legal name change. Late updates can lead to mismatched records that may affect TSA travel, insurance, or title transactions.
Will my REAL ID stay valid after a name change?
Your card remains valid until expiration, but it should reflect your current legal name. For airport screening since May 7, 2025, ensure your ID matches your ticket name to avoid delays.
State contact
Phone: (800) 777-0133
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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