How to Change Your Name on Your Driver's License

What you need to do to update your name on your license

To change your name on your driver's license, you must visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person with proof of your legal name change and your current license. The process itself is straightforward—you fill out a form, provide documents, pay a fee, and receive a new license—but the documents you bring and the exact steps depend on why your name changed and which state you live in.

Most states require you to have a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing your new legal name before the DMV will issue a new license. You cannot change your name at the DMV itself; the DMV only updates their records after you have already changed your name through the legal system or through marriage.

Key Takeaways

You must have a legal document proving your name change—such as a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree—before visiting the DMV.
Every state has different forms and fees for name changes on licenses, so check your state DMV website for the exact requirements before you go.
You must appear in person at a DMV office with your current license and proof documents; you cannot change your name by mail or online in any state.
Processing times vary by state, but most new licenses arrive within two to four weeks of your visit.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

The core documents are your current driver's license and proof of your legal name change. For a name change due to marriage, bring your original or certified marriage certificate. For divorce or annulment, bring the final divorce decree or annulment order. For a court-ordered name change, bring the court order itself.

You will also need to prove your identity and residency. Most states accept a passport, birth certificate, or Social Security card for identity. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in your name at your current address. Some states also require your Social Security number, so have that ready. Check your state DMV website before you go—a few states have additional requirements, such as proof of citizenship or a completed name change affidavit.

How to find your state's specific form and process

Go to your state's DMV website and search for "name change" or "update license." You will find the form you need to complete before or at your appointment. Most states let you read and print the form ahead of time, which saves time at the office. Some states require you to complete the form online and print a confirmation before you arrive.

The DMV website will also list the fee for a name change, which ranges from about $10 to $50 depending on your state. Some states charge the same fee as a regular license renewal; others charge less. Write down the fee so you know how much cash or which payment methods to bring. The website will also tell you whether you need an appointment or can walk in, and which office locations handle name changes.

What happens during your DMV visit

Bring all your documents, the completed form, and payment. A DMV staff member will review your documents to confirm your legal name change, check your identity, and verify your current address. They will take a new photo for your license unless your state allows you to keep your old photo. You will sign the back of your new license.

The staff member will tell you when to expect your new license. Most states mail the license to your address within two to four weeks. Some states issue a temporary paper license you can use when ready while you wait for the plastic card. Ask whether your state does this, because it matters if you need to drive before the new license arrives.

Name changes due to marriage

If you changed your name through marriage, bring your marriage certificate. Some states accept a certified copy; others require the original. If you do not have the original, contact the county clerk's office where you were married and request a certified copy—this usually costs $10 to $25 and takes one to two weeks by mail.

You do not need a court order for a marriage-based name change. The marriage certificate itself is your legal proof. However, some states require you to change your name on your Social Security card first, so check your state's rules. If your state requires this, visit ssa.gov, find your local Social Security office, and bring your marriage certificate and current Social Security card.

Name changes due to divorce or court order

If you changed your name through divorce, bring your final divorce decree. The decree must show your new legal name. If you have only a temporary or preliminary decree, contact the court that issued it and request the final decree. This usually takes a few days to a few weeks.

For a court-ordered name change (not related to marriage or divorce), bring the court order itself. You will have received this order when the court approved your name change petition. If you lost it, contact the court clerk's office and request a certified copy. The DMV will not process your name change without this document.

What to do if you cannot visit the DMV in person

Every state requires you to appear in person to change your name on your license. You cannot do this by mail, online, or through a third party. If you are unable to visit an office, you have limited options: some states allow a family member or attorney to appear on your behalf with a power of attorney document, but this is rare and varies by state. Contact your state DMV directly to ask whether this is possible.

If you are out of state or unable to travel, you may be able to renew your license by mail when it expires, but you cannot change your name remotely. Plan to visit a DMV office in person when you are able to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my name on my Social Security card before I change it on my license?

This depends on your state. Some states require you to update your Social Security card first; others do not. Check your state DMV website or call your local DMV office to find out. If your state requires it, visit your local Social Security office with your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order and your current Social Security card.

How long does it take to get a new license after a name change?

Most states mail your new license within two to four weeks of your visit. Some states issue a temporary paper license you can use right away. A few states take longer, especially if they are processing a high volume of requests. Your DMV office will tell you the expected timeline when you visit.

What if my marriage certificate or court order is lost?

Contact the office that issued the document. For a marriage certificate, contact the county clerk's office where you were married. For a divorce decree or court order, contact the court clerk's office. Request a certified copy, which usually costs $10 to $25 and takes one to two weeks by mail. Some offices offer expedited service for an extra fee.

Can I change my name on my license if I have not legally changed my name yet?

No. The DMV updates your license only after you have already changed your name through marriage, divorce, court order, or another legal process. You must have the legal document proving the change before you visit the DMV.

Do I need a new photo for my license when I change my name?

Most states take a new photo during a name change. A few states let you keep your old photo if you prefer. Ask the DMV staff member when you arrive, or check your state's website ahead of time to see what your state does.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.