What you need to do to change your name on your driver's license
To change your name on your driver's license, you visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person, bring proof of your legal name change, and submit a form requesting the update. The process itself takes minutes, but you will need to have already completed the legal name change through your state's court system or vital records office — the DMV does not perform the legal change, only updates their records to match it.
Most states require you to appear in person and bring your current license plus the document that proves your name is now legally different. That document is usually a court order from a name change petition, a certified marriage certificate, a divorce decree, or an amended birth certificate. The exact requirements and forms vary by state, so you should check your state DMV's website before you go.
Key Takeaways
- You must complete a legal name change through your state court or vital records office before the DMV will update your license.
- Bring your current driver's license, the legal document proving your name change, and a completed name change form to your local DMV office.
- You will need to appear in person; most states do not accept mail-in requests for name changes on licenses.
- Processing time is usually same-day or within a few days, though your new license may take one to two weeks to arrive by mail.
- Some states charge a small fee for the name change; others include it in your regular license renewal fee.
How to get a legal name change before updating your license
The DMV updates records based on documents you bring them — they do not create the legal change themselves. Before you visit the DMV, you need a court order or vital records document that shows your name is now legally different.
If you are changing your name through marriage, divorce, or adoption, you already have the document you need: a certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or adoption order. If you want to change your name for any other reason, you must file a name change petition in your state's district or circuit court. The court clerk's office can tell you which forms to use and what fee applies — this usually costs between $100 and $300 depending on your state.
Once you have the legal document, get a certified copy (not a photocopy). The DMV will not accept uncertified copies. If you are using a marriage certificate or divorce decree, make sure it is a certified copy from the vital records office or court that issued it.
What documents to bring to the DMV
Bring your current driver's license, your legal name change document (certified copy), and a completed name change form. Your state DMV website will have the form available to read, or you can pick one up at the office. Some states call this a "name change request" form; others include it as part of a license renewal or replacement form.
You will also need to bring proof of your current address if it is different from what appears on your license. A utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, since the DMV uses it to verify your identity against federal records.
Check your state DMV's website for the complete list before you go, because some states have additional requirements — for example, some ask for a second form of ID or proof of citizenship.
Where to go and what happens when you arrive
Visit your local DMV office in person. You cannot change your name by mail in most states, and you cannot do it online. Go during off-peak hours if possible — early morning or mid-week visits usually mean shorter waits.
When you arrive, take a number or check in at the counter. Tell the staff member you are there to change your name on your license. They will review your documents, make sure your form is filled out correctly, and take a new photo if your state requires one. The whole process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes.
You will pay a fee at this point if your state charges one. Some states include the name change in your regular license fee; others charge a separate fee of $10 to $30. Ask what the fee is when you check in, in case you need to use an ATM.
How long it takes to get your new license
The DMV usually issues your new license on the spot or within a few days. However, the physical card itself is printed at a central location and mailed to you, which typically takes one to two weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license at the DMV that you can use while you wait for the card to arrive.
If you need the new license urgently, some states offer expedited printing for an extra fee, usually $10 to $25. Ask at the counter whether your state offers this option.
Changing your name if you have a commercial driver's license
The process is the same for a commercial driver's license (CDL) as for a regular license — you bring the same documents and fill out the same form. However, if your CDL has endorsements (for hazmat, passenger transport, or other specializations), the DMV will verify those endorsements are still valid under your new name before issuing the new card.
If you hold a CDL, also check whether your employer or the company that issued your medical certificate needs to be notified of the name change. Some employers require you to update your records with them as well.
What to do if you lose your documents before the DMV appointment
If you lose your court order or certified name change document before you can get to the DMV, contact the court or vital records office that issued it and request a replacement certified copy. This usually costs $10 to $25 and takes a few days to a week by mail.
If you lose your current driver's license before you can use it to change your name, you will need to replace it first. Visit the DMV, report it lost, and get a replacement license. Then, once you have the replacement, you can return to change the name using the same process described above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name on my license without going to the DMV in person?
No. Most states require you to appear in person with your documents. A few states allow mail-in requests, but only if you are renewing your license at the same time. Check your state DMV website to see whether mail-in is an option where you live.
What if my name change document is from another state?
The DMV will accept a name change document from any state as long as it is certified and shows your name is legally different. Bring the certified copy and your current license. The DMV staff will verify it is legitimate before updating your record.
Do I have to change my name on my license if I get married or divorced?
No, it is not required. You can keep your current name on your license even if you legally change your name. However, keeping your old name on your license while using a different name elsewhere can cause problems with banking, travel, and other official records, so most people update it.
How much does it cost to change your name on your license?
The fee varies by state, from no charge to about $30. Some states include it in your regular license renewal fee; others charge a separate fee for a name change. Check your state DMV website or call your local office to find out what you will owe.
What if I made a mistake on the name change form at the DMV?
Tell the DMV staff member before you leave the office. They can usually correct it on the spot or give you a new form to fill out. If you do not catch it until after you leave, contact your local DMV office and ask whether they can correct it without requiring you to return in person.