How to Change Your Name on Your Drivers License
If you’ve changed your name because of marriage, divorce, a court order, or another reason, you’ll need to update your name with the DMV. This helps make sure your driver’s license, title, and vehicle registration all show your correct name.
Before you can change your name with the DMV, you first have to update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Both the SSA and the DMV have certain rules you must follow, like showing documents that prove your identity and citizenship. Depending on where you live, you might be able to change your name in person or by mail. Keep reading to learn how to update your name on your driver’s license.
Instances Where You Must Change Your Name on Your Drivers License
Drivers must update the name on their license any time they go through a legal name change. This often happens due to marriage, divorce, adoption, legal separation, or a court order.
Before going to the DMV, you need to update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Once that’s done, you can visit your local DMV office to change the name on your driver’s license.
Drivers License Name Change Time Limits
There are typically time limits for motorists to change their names on a drivers license. However, these deadlines vary from state to state, and sometimes even from county to county. Thus, it is important for applicants to identify the appropriate timeframes for these procedures, and to make sure that they request a drivers license name change in a timely manner.
How to Change Your Name With the Social Security Administration
Before changing your name on your drivers license, it is your responsibility to update it with the Social Security Administration. Note that when you petition for a name change with the SSA, you will be mandated to provide specific paperwork. The name changing procedure generally requires you to submit proof of identity in the form of a valid driving license, U.S. passport or a photo ID card.
Note that the SSA may also require you to prove your legal presence in the country by submitting a U.S. birth certificate or passport. In addition to this, you must enclose proof of your legal name change by providing one of the following documents:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Certificate of naturalization showing your new name
- Court order authorizing the name change
As part of the name change process, you’ll need to fill out an application for a new Social Security card. Once you’ve collected all the required documents, you can either mail them or take them to your local SSA office. After your documents are checked and approved, the SSA will send you an updated Social Security card by mail.
How to Change Your Name on Your Drivers License
Once the Social Security Administration approves your name change, you can update your driver’s license at the state DMV. It’s important to notify the DMV promptly to avoid penalties. To complete the process, you’ll need to provide proof that your name has legally changed.
You’ll likely need to submit a request form along with documents like a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. Some states, like Arizona, may also require proof of citizenship or naturalization. While most people must change their name in person at the DMV, some states allow you to do it by mail. To get a new license with your updated name, you’ll probably need to apply for a replacement license.
Note: Certain states, such as New York, require motorists changing their name on their driving license to arrange payment for a set fee, in addition to submitting the necessary documents.