Any time Wisconsin residents legally change their names, they must request a driver’s license name change, which will update their information on their identification credentials. Overall, a WI DMV name change may come as the result of marriage, divorce or gender reassignment, as well as other lawful reasons.

Wisconsin is one of the few states that offers an online method for you to change your name on a driving license, which allows for a faster and easier process. However, be mindful that you can only undergo this procedure after you officially change your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Learn more about how to change your name of a driver’s license by reading the following sections.

Instances Where You Must Change Your Name on Your Wisconsin Driver’s License

A Wisconsin DMV name change procedure is most commonly requested after circumstances such as a marriage, divorce or gender reassignment. However, there are numerous personal reasons for a change of name on a driving license, which sometimes stem simply from a personal preference. Many individuals have experienced the feeling that the names they were given at birth fail to represent who they are. These reasons may also pertain to a resident’s religious beliefs, ethnicity or

Furthermore, certain motorists seek to name change on a driver’s license as the result of a legally-ordered name change. Whatever an applicant’s reason may be, it is important for this procedure to be requested in a timely manner.

Wisconsin Driver’s License Name Change Time Limits

WI residents should apply for a driver’s license name change as soon as they change their legal names, because state traffic laws require all motorists to carry licenses that display their correct legal names. Moreover, having identification discrepancies across multiple institutions, such as between the DMV and the SSA, can create potential problems for you in the future.

The official requirements for a change of name on a driving license in Wisconsin have no clear completion time period connected to the procedure. However, keep in mind that a WI DMV name change is still expected to be completed promptly. This will prevent having your driving privileges potentially revoked if you are accused of misrepresenting your identity on your driver’s license.

How to Change Your Name with the Social Security Administration

Prior to approving a change of name on a driving license, the Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will require you to change your name with the Social Security Administration. In general, the SSA requires some of the same documentation used to apply for a driver’s license name change.

For instance, applicants will be asked to provide a certificate of marriage, a decree of divorce, a court-ordered name change or a certificate or naturalization. The SSA provides this service for free, and applicants may apply by mail or in person at your local Social Security office.

In order to accelerate the process that pertains to a change of name on a driving license, the WI DMV utilizes the official online system established by the SSA. This process allows for the electronic verification of your name change at no extra cost. Before approving a Wisconsin DMV name change request, the state’s Division of Motor Vehicles will compare the information it received with the information shared by the Social Security Administration. This information includes your name, date of birth, gender and Social Security Number (SSN).

The DMV will change your name on your driving license and issue your updated credential only after your information matches with the SSA. Moreover, before visiting a WI DMV branch, you should allow for 48 hours to pass after submitting your SSA name change. This will allow time for the Social Security Administration’s system to update its records.

Online Driver’s License Name Changes

You cannot change your name on a driving license in Wisconsin through an online method. However, you may expedite your processing time by starting the name change procedure through a state-approved online system. This system allows you to fill out and submit a WI DMV application form.

In certain cases, you may also be offered the option to make a driver’s license name change in-person appointment following your online submission. Furthermore, you may print a copy of this filled-out form to bring with you to the DMV service center whenever you go, whether or not you made an appointment online. Following these steps can speed up your name change procedure significantly.

How to Change Your Name on Your Driver’s License in Person

A driver’s license name change can be requested in person at one of the various WI DMV locations. However, because certain locations offer different services, make sure that these procedures are offered at the specific location you intend to visit.

In order to apply for a change of name on a driver’s license, you must bring documents that prove your identity and name change, as well as a certified or original certificate of birth. Moreover, you will be asked to submit proof of your residency in Wisconsin and proof of your legal status in the United States.

Remember to bring an original or certified copy of all of these required documents for a name change on a driver’s license, because photocopies will not be accepted, even if they are notarized. In addition, applicants must complete the appropriate application form and submit it along with payment for the service fees.

Wisconsin DMV Name Change Fees

The fees associated with a Wisconsin DMV name change are the same as the ones for other types of driver’s license replacement procedures. That is because, upon requesting a driver’s license name change in WI, you will be issued a new credential.

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