How to Change Your Name After Marriage: The Documents You Need and Where to File

What you need to do to change your name after marriage

You do not have to change your name after marriage, but if you want to, you will need to file paperwork with your state. The process has two main parts: getting a court order or using your marriage certificate as proof of the name change, then updating your Social Security record, driver's license, passport, and bank accounts. Most states let you use your marriage certificate alone to change your name without a separate court order, though a few require you to file in court. The whole process takes between two weeks and three months depending on your state and how quickly you mail documents.

The order matters. You must update Social Security first, because the DMV and passport office check Social Security's records before they issue new documents. If your name does not match there, they will reject your process. After Social Security approves the change, you can update your driver's license, passport, and bank accounts in any order.

Key Takeaways

Most states recognize your marriage certificate as legal proof of your name change without requiring a court order.
You must update your Social Security record before you can change your driver's license or passport.
Each agency—Social Security, the DMV, the State Department—has its own form and fee, and you cannot combine them into one process.
Processing times vary by state and agency, but expect two to four weeks for Social Security and one to two weeks for a new driver's license.
If you change your mind later, you can revert to your maiden name using the same process, though some states charge a second fee.

Step 1: Get your certified marriage certificate

Before you file anything else, order a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the county clerk's office where you were married. A certified copy has the clerk's seal and signature and is the only version most agencies will accept. Do not use a photocopy or the certificate the officiant gave you at the wedding—those are not certified.

Call or visit the county clerk's website to find out the cost (usually between $10 and $25) and whether you can order by mail or must appear in person. Some counties let you order online through their website. Order at least two or three certified copies because you will need to send originals to Social Security, your state's vital records office, and possibly your bank or employer. Getting extras now is cheaper than ordering them again later.

Step 2: Update your Social Security record

You must change your name with Social Security before you change it with the DMV or State Department. The DMV and passport office check Social Security's records, and they will reject your process if your name does not match there.

Go to your local Social Security office in person with your certified marriage certificate, your current Social Security card, and a photo ID. You can find your office at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Fill out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) at the office—do not mail it in advance. Social Security will issue you a new card with your new name, usually within two weeks. Keep the receipt they give you; you will need it to prove you have filed.

Step 3: explore for a new driver's license

Once you have your new Social Security card, go to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles with your certified marriage certificate, your new Social Security card, your current driver's license, and a photo ID. Some states accept the marriage certificate alone; others require both the marriage certificate and the Social Security card. Check your state's DMV website before you go to see what documents they list.

You will fill out a form to request a name change on your license. Some states charge a small fee (between $5 and $20) for a replacement license; others do not. The new license usually arrives in the mail within one to two weeks. If you need to drive before it arrives, ask the DMV whether they issue a temporary license on the spot.

Step 4: Update your passport

If you have a U.S. passport, you can change the name on it by mail or in person. If your passport is not damaged and was issued when you were 16 or older, you can use the mail-in process. Go to the State Department's website, read Form DS-11 or DS-82 (depending on whether you are renewing or just changing the name), and mail it with your current passport, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, a new passport photo, and the fee (currently $130 for a passport book).

Processing takes four to six weeks by mail. If you need your passport sooner, you can explore in person at a passport acceptance facility or passport agency and pay an expedite fee. You will need your certified marriage certificate, a new photo, your current passport, and a photo ID. Expedited processing takes two to three weeks.

Step 5: Notify your bank, employer, and insurance companies

Once you have updated Social Security, your driver's license, and your passport, contact your bank, employer, and any insurance companies (car, home, health) to update your name in their records. Bring your new driver's license and Social Security card as proof. Your bank will issue you a new debit card and checks with your new name. Your employer will update your tax withholding forms and W-2 records. Insurance companies will reissue your policy documents.

Some companies let you update your name online through their website or app; others require you to call or visit in person. Check each company's website to see which method they offer. Keep copies of any confirmation emails or letters they send you showing the name change has been processed.

What to do if your state requires a court order

A small number of states—including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia—require you to file a petition in court to change your name, even after marriage. In these states, you cannot use your marriage certificate alone.

Contact your county court clerk to ask for the name change petition form and filing fee (usually between $100 and $300). Fill out the form, file it with the court, and attend a brief hearing if the judge requires one. Once the court approves your petition, you will receive a court order. Use that order instead of your marriage certificate when you update Social Security, your driver's license, and your passport. The process takes two to four weeks longer than in states that accept the marriage certificate alone.

Changing your name back if you change your mind

If you want to revert to your maiden name later, you can use the same process. In most states, you file a new petition in court or submit a new process to change your name back. Some states charge a second fee; others waive it if you are reverting to your legal name before marriage. Check your state's vital records office or court clerk's website to see what the cost is and what documents you need.

You will go through the same steps again: get a court order or certified document showing the name change, update Social Security, then update your driver's license, passport, and bank accounts. The timeline is the same as the original change—two to four weeks for most of the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my name after I get married?

No. Changing your name after marriage is optional. You can keep your maiden name, use a hyphenated name, or take your spouse's name. The choice is yours, and no state requires you to change it.

Can I use my marriage certificate to change my name, or do I need a court order?

Most states let you use your certified marriage certificate as proof of the name change without filing in court. However, about 20 states require you to petition the court for a name change order even after marriage. Check your state's vital records office or court clerk's website to find out which rule applies where you live.

How long does it take to change my name after marriage?

The entire process usually takes two to four weeks. Social Security takes one to two weeks, the DMV takes one to two weeks, and the passport office takes four to six weeks by mail or two to three weeks if expedited. If your state requires a court order, add another two to four weeks.

What if I get married in one state but live in another?

You can change your name in the state where you live, not necessarily where you were married. Use your certified marriage certificate (from the state where you were married) to update your Social Security and driver's license in your home state. The marriage certificate is valid in all states.

Do I need to change my name with my employer?

You should notify your employer so they can update your tax records and issue a new W-2 with your correct name. This is not required by law, but it prevents confusion with the IRS and your tax returns. Contact your HR or payroll department with your new Social Security card and driver's license as proof.

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.