What you need to do to update your name on your license
To change your name on your driver's license, you visit your state's DMV office in person with proof of your legal name change and your current license. The exact documents required and the fee vary by state, but every state requires you to show official paperwork — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — that proves your new name is legal. You cannot change your name on your license by mail or online in most states; you must appear at a DMV office and usually get a new photo taken.
The process itself takes about 30 minutes to an hour at the DMV counter. You fill out a form (often called an process for Driver License or similar), hand over your documents, pay the fee, and sit for a new photo. Your new license arrives by mail within one to three weeks in most states, though some issue it on the spot. Until it arrives, your old license is still valid for driving.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DMV office in person with your current license and official proof of your legal name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
- Every state requires you to show the original or certified copy of your name-change document; a photocopy or photo of it is not enough.
- The fee for a name change on your license ranges from free to around $30 depending on your state, and some states charge extra if you also want a new photo.
- Your new license typically arrives by mail within one to three weeks; your old license remains valid for driving until the new one arrives.
- If you are changing your name due to marriage or divorce, you may need to update your Social Security record first, which can affect your DMV appointment.
Documents you must bring to the DMV
Bring your current driver's license, your proof of legal name change, and a form of identification that shows your current address. The proof of name change must be an original document or a certified copy — a photocopy or a photo on your phone will not be accepted. For marriage, bring your marriage certificate. For divorce, bring your divorce decree or the final judgment from the court. For a legal name change through the court, bring the court order that granted the change.
You will also need to show proof of your current address if it is not on your driver's license. A utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. Some states also ask for your Social Security number or a copy of your Social Security card, so call your DMV ahead of time to confirm what they need. Bringing one extra document is better than making a second trip.
Whether you need to update Social Security first
If you are changing your name due to marriage or divorce, you may want to update your Social Security record before you go to the DMV. Social Security and the DMV share information, and some states check your Social Security record when you explore for a name change on your license. If your Social Security name does not match what you are requesting on your license, the DMV may ask you to update Social Security first.
To change your name with Social Security, visit your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213 with your Social Security card, proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate), and proof of your legal name change. The process takes about 15 minutes, and you receive a new Social Security card by mail within two weeks. Doing this before your DMV appointment prevents delays, though it is not always required.
Fees and how long the new license takes to arrive
The cost of a name change on your driver's license varies by state. Some states charge no fee for a name change due to marriage or divorce, while others charge $10 to $30. A few states charge extra if you want a new photo taken at the same time. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to learn the exact fee, because some offices do not accept cards and require cash or a check.
Your new license is usually mailed to you within one to three weeks. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee, typically $10 to $25, which can cut the time to five to ten business days. A small number of states issue your new license on the spot at the DMV office, so ask when you arrive. Your old license remains valid for driving and identification until your new one arrives, so you do not need to rush.
What to do if you cannot visit the DMV in person
Most states do not allow name changes by mail or online, but a few states have limited options for people who cannot visit an office. Some states allow you to mail in your documents if you are renewing your license at the same time, or if you live out of state. A handful of states offer online name-change requests, though you still must visit an office to take a new photo before your license is issued.
If you cannot visit the DMV, call your state's DMV customer service line and ask whether a mail-in or online option exists for your situation. If not, you may be able to have a family member or authorized representative visit on your behalf in some states, though this is rare and usually requires a signed power of attorney. Plan to visit in person if possible, because it is the fastest and most reliable route.
How a name change affects your driver's license number and expiration date
When you change your name on your driver's license, you receive a new license number in most states. Your expiration date may also change — some states reset it to the standard renewal period (often five to eight years from the date of issue), while others keep your original expiration date. Check your new license when it arrives to confirm the expiration date, because you do not want to be surprised when it expires sooner than you expected.
Your old license number is no longer valid once your new license arrives, so update any records that use it — your insurance company, employer, bank, and any other organization that has your license number on file. Most of these organizations can update your information over the phone or online once you give them your new license number. Your insurance company in particular needs the update quickly, because your policy is tied to your license number.
Name changes and your driving record
Your driving record follows you even after a name change, so any tickets, accidents, or violations you received under your old name stay on your record under your new name. The DMV links your old and new license numbers, so law enforcement and insurance companies can see your full history. You cannot erase or hide your driving record by changing your name.
If you have an outstanding ticket or suspension under your old name, you must resolve it before you can renew your license or change your name on it in some states. Check your driving record before you visit the DMV by going to your state's DMV website or calling their customer service line. If there is a hold on your license, the DMV will tell you what you need to do to clear it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name on my license if I have an outstanding ticket or suspension?
It depends on your state. Some states will not process a name change if you have an active suspension or unpaid tickets. Call your DMV before you visit to ask whether any holds exist on your license. If there are, you must pay the ticket or resolve the suspension first.
Do I need to change my name on my insurance at the same time?
You should notify your insurance company of your name change, but you do not have to do it on the same day as your DMV visit. However, do it within a few days, because your policy is tied to your license number and your insurer needs your current legal name on file. Most insurance companies let you update your name over the phone or online.
What if my marriage certificate or divorce decree is not in English?
You will need an official English translation certified by a translator or court. The DMV will not accept a document in another language, even if you provide a translation yourself. Contact your DMV ahead of time to ask where you can get a certified translation in your area.
Can I change my name on my license if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have a valid visa, green card, or other legal immigration status. You will need to bring your immigration document along with your proof of name change. Undocumented immigrants cannot obtain or renew a driver's license in most states, though a few states issue licenses regardless of immigration status — check your state's rules.
What happens to my old license after my new one arrives?
Your old license is no longer valid for driving or identification once your new license arrives. You can destroy it or keep it as a record. Some people keep it for their personal files. There is no requirement to return it to the DMV unless your state specifically asks you to.