How to Change Your Name After Marriage
Changing your name after marriage is a big decision, whether taking your spouse's last name, hyphenating, or creating a new last name. Yet it needn't overwhelm you.
This quick and easy guide will show you how to complete the marriage name change process with precision and in proper order. Get ready to change your last name with confidence.
Authorization to legally change your name
Legally changing your name after your wedding is a hefty task. So focus on bite-sized chunks. Begin with a new social security card. Then a new driver's license. Persist.
There are three prevalent name change events:
- Marriage
- Divorce
- Court order
And each has a related legal name change document:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree (with restored name order)
- Court order (with name change order)
The name change process using your marriage certificate works the same when using a decree of dissolution or judge's order, which decrees or orders your name changed.
Civil union and domestic partnership name changes use the same process as changing your name by marriage—using their comparable certified documents.
Name change through the marriage process
If your marriage certificate says your new last name will be XYZ, you may only shift to that name. Otherwise, pick whichever last name you decide works best, within acceptable limits.
Within acceptable limits refers to default social security rules for surnames:
- Take your spouse's last name.
- Hyphenate your last names (or use a space).
- Take half of your spouse's hyphenated last name.
You may also replace your middle name with your maiden name (or last name at birth), alongside changing your last name. Or add a second name to your middle name.
Consider our convenient online name change kit, designed to save you time and effort alongside this comprehensive guide.
Is name change after marriage automatic?
Your last name won't automatically change after you get married. There are legal steps and forms to fill out. You must alert multiple government offices to make it official.
Likewise, your name won't revert or switch by itself after divorcing or completing a formal name change petition. You must put in the work.
So if you plan to change your name after marriage, get ready to review your name change checklist, sorted by priority.
The name change process begins now…
1. Get your marriage certificate
The first step to changing your last name is to get your marriage certificate. This is one of your most important legal name change documents. You can't move forward without it.
You can use an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate to change your name after marriage among government agencies.
But you must apply for a marriage license to get a certificate. For New England states, NY, and NJ, visit your city or town clerk. Others, see your county clerk's office or county courthouse.
Either you or your officiant must return your completed license to the issuing office for recording after your wedding. Get your certified certificates from the same office.
Marriage license vs. marriage certificate
People often mix up the marriage license and certificate, but there's a key difference:
- Your marriage license allows you to marry.
- Your marriage certificate proves your marriage occurred.
Depending on where you live, your marriage license and certificate may be the same document; only the status shifts after your ceremony takes place.
Get your marriage certificate as soon as possible
You can get certified copies of your marriage certificate delivered straight to your mailbox; just preorder copies when you apply to get married. Yet a quicker way exists…
Many couples assume only their officiant may send back their completed marriage license. Not true. You may return your own marriage license after getting married.
You may obtain your marriage certificate fastest if you:
- Return your marriage license in person.
- Get certified copies before leaving the clerk's office.
One certified copy of your marriage certificate will cost between $5 and $25. Fees each state levies vary. Yet most hover around $20. (They'll often discount extra copies.)
Consider getting at least three certified copies of your marriage certificate. This saves time when changing your name across multiple entities.
2. Update your social security card
Your name change becomes legal once you update the name on your social security card through the Social Security Administration (SSA).
You can view our extensive social security name change guide, which covers filing options, identity documents, name change possibilities, turnaround times, etc.
In short, submit SS-5 by mail or in person with a certified copy of your marriage certificate, and proof of ID and citizenship (e.g., birth certificate). Your new card will arrive in 7–14 days.
Your local social security office will mail back any ID, certificate, or personal document included with your paperwork. They'll get delivered before your new card.
Your updated social security card will print your new full name, but your social security number (SSN) won't change.
3. Update the IRS
The SSA will alert the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of your name change. File your tax returns in your new last name to avoid delays in processing and refunds.
You must mail IRS Form 8822 if your "home mailing address" changed. Note prior names for both you and your spouse. You needn't attach proof of name change or photo ID.
4. Update your driver's license or state ID card
Note: We will use DMV as shorthand for your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office. State acronyms vary—e.g., BMV, RMV, SOS—but their offices are equivalent.
You must first update your name with the Social Security Administration before changing your name on your driver's license, REAL ID, state-issued ID card, or learner's permit.
You can't change the name on your driver's license by mail or online. Complete this corrective renewal at your local DMV. And factor in potential name change deadlines.
Come prepared to take a new photo and pay a renewal or reissue fee. Bring cash or a personal check. Offices accepting credit card payments may add a surcharge.
On May 3, 2023 May 7, 2025, the oft-delayed REAL ID deadline goes into effect, requiring adult air travelers to own a REAL ID compliant driver's license, enhanced driver's license (EDL), or other valid ID to fly within the United States.
Documents needed by the DMV
Bring your current driver's license, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, and proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, bank statement) to change your name with the DMV.
You will need to show proof of your full social security number (SSN), such as a:
- Social security card
- Pay stub
- W-2, or
- 1099 tax form
The DMV won't keep your certificate, but may retain your old driver's license and issue you a temporary ID. Your new license will arrive by mail.
SSA to DMV verification (mind the 24 hour gap)
The DMV will confirm your name change with the SSA Online Verification System (OVS) by querying their database. This search requires your SSN.
Wait at least 24 hours between your social security card and driver's license name change. This gives the SSA database time to propagate new data before getting queried.
The new name on your new driver's license must agree with your SSA "Numident" record. This explains why your SS name change precedes your DL name change.
So with proper timing, you can visit the DMV to update your license without waiting for your new social security card to arrive.
5. Update your car title and registration
You must update your vehicle title and registration when your name or address changes. You can often complete this process online, by mail, or by filling out papers at the DMV.
The procedure for car title and registration changes varies across states. You should consult your state's DMV website for precise details.
At a minimum, you must hand in your current vehicle title. Both your new title and registration should arrive by mail within a few weeks. Your title should arrive last.
Revising your vehicle title and registration isn't a DMV role in every state. Most states assign this task to an approved license plate agency.
6. Update your passport
You may change the name on your U.S. passport with the U.S. Department of State before, during, or after changing your name with the SSA or DMV.
There are two feasible passport name change scenarios:
- Change the name on your current passport.
- Get your first ever passport under your married name.
Choosing the right passport application
There are three core passport forms (DS-5504, DS-82, and DS-11) and one conditional (DS-62). The upcoming three subsections will explain which one you should fill out.
But, first, three vital notes…
If you have a passport, forfeit it with your completed form. You'll get your old passport back by mail, albeit voided with a hole punched through or stamped "cancelled" inside.
For all filings, attach a certified copy of your marriage certificate as proof of name change, requisite payments, and a recent 2-by-2-inch color headshot.
Pay by check or money order, payable to "U.S. Department of State." If you're outside the U.S or Canada, file at a U.S. embassy or consulate; both accept credit cards and exact cash.
Now, onto the forms…
Which date was your passport issued?
A. Issued less than one year ago
Mail DS-5504 with your current passport if it got issued less than a year ago. This application offers filings free of cost. There is no book, card, or processing fee.
B. Issued between one and 15 years ago
Mail DS-82 with your current passport if it was issued between one and 15 years ago. The passport book costs $130, with an optional passport card available for an extra $30.
C: Issued over 15 years ago, lost, destroyed, or first-time
Submit DS-11 in person—with photo ID and proof of U.S. citizenship—at an acceptance facility, such as the thousands of designated USPS offices, if your passport is:
- Over 15 years old
- Lost
- Stolen
- Damaged, or
- Nonexistent, since this will be your first passport
You may get a passport book for $130, passport card for $30, or both for $160. The acceptance facility will charge a $35 execution fee to process your application.
You must attach DS-64 to DS-11 if your passport becomes lost, stolen, or damaged. This combo is required regardless of your passport age.
Passport processing times
Routine passport turnaround time is 7 to 10 weeks (from application received to delivery by USPS Priority Mail). Adding $60 for expedited processing shortens the wait to 4 to 6 weeks.
If you need to travel right away, urgent or emergency travel options exist:
- Urgent means within 14 calendar days.
- Emergency means within 72 hours.
Traveling under your maiden or married name
The name on your passport and airline tickets must match when you leave the United States. This detail may get overlooked during your wedding and honeymoon rush.
If you can't get a new passport before departing, book your plane tickets under your maiden name. You can update the name on your passport when you get back.
If you can't alter your boarding pass to match your new passport, show the airline your marriage certificate linking your old and new name.
7. Update your bank accounts
Steps to update your legal name differ across financial institutions. Your bank or credit union may let you change your name online, by mail, by phone, or in-person visit.
Show proof of name change, such as a marriage certificate, or a new social security card, driver's license, passport, military ID card, or government-issued photo ID card.
It's possible your bank may request both a marriage certificate and updated photo ID showing your married name.
Expect to provide at least your old and updated name, account numbers, and IRS W-9 Tax Identification Number (TIN).
Your TIN is a:
- Social security number (SSN)
- Individual tax identification number (ITIN), or
- Employer identification number (EIN) (for businesses)
When updating your name at a local bank branch, bring certified or original documents. Photocopies or scans are often fine for mailed or uploaded online filings.
Specify if you need new:
- Checks
- Deposit slips
- Credit and debit cards
You may order new checks any time online from either your bank's website or a third-party check provider. (This could serve as your first official name conversion.)
If you ask, various banks may let you keep cashing, depositing, and writing checks in your old and new name. They may have you sign two signature cards.
8. Update your credit cards
You should update the name on your credit cards to match the name on your social security record. Your marriage certificate can serve as proof of name change.
You may make account changes by calling the customer service number on the back of your credit card or visiting a nearby branch location. (Assuming one exists.)
The process varies per creditor. Some allow you to change your name by phone, mail, fax, online chat, official mobile app, or online account area.
Various credit card issuers may allow the display name on your card to differ from your new legal name. For example, you could continue using your maiden name.
The three credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—will automatically update the name on your credit report once you change your name on one or more credit cards. (No need for you to contact them.)
9. Update your employers and HR
Notify the Human Resources (HR) department where you work that you've legally changed your name. HR must update payroll records to equal what the SSA has on file.
The IRS requires your name match between your social security card, W-2, and W-4, for payroll taxes. Your marital status may impact employer-based health insurance and W-4 allowances.
Inform HR if you have opened a new joint bank account with your spouse to ensure direct depositing of your wages proceed without interruption.
Ask your employer for a corrected W-2 if your issued W-2 shows your old name. If your current or former employer doesn't comply, the IRS may intervene on your behalf.
10. Update your name with the USPS
You should alert the United States Postal Service (USPS) if you have changed both your name and mailing address to set up and schedule mail forwarding.
Filing separate requests in your maiden name and married name is key. (Plus every other prior name you've held.) See our USPS name change guide for instructions.
11. Update your voter registration information
You may change the name on your voter registration by mail using the downloadable federal National Mail Voter Registration Form, which supports 21 languages.
U.S. citizens living in the country (or with a U.S. address) may use this document in four ways:
- Register to vote.
- Report a name change.
- Report an address change.
- Register with a political party.
Caveats: This document will neither work in Wyoming nor North Dakota; WY law blocks it, while ND doesn't register voters.
12. Update or notify everyone else
After you change your last name on legal documents, deal with these key leftovers:
- Business documents (e.g., DBA, LLC, corporate charter)
- Business relationships (e.g., attorneys, accountants)
- Clients, customers, and vendors
- Doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and therapists
- Email accounts (name and signature) (e.g., Gmail, Apple Mail, Outlook)
- Gym memberships
- Insurance policies (e.g., auto, home, dental, life, health)
- Mailbox services (e.g., PO Box, PMB)
- Mobile apps (bio and profile name)
- Mortgages, deeds, and leases
- Payment services (e.g., PayPal, Venmo, Zelle)
- Professional licenses and degrees
- Retirement and investment accounts (e.g., 401(k), IRA)
- Ridesharing profiles (drivers and riders) (e.g., Uber, Lyft)
- Schools (yours and your children's)
- Social media accounts (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, TikTok)
- Streaming profiles (e.g., Netflix, Amazon Prime)
- Trusted Traveler Programs (e.g., Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, SENTRI, NEXUS)
- Utility companies (e.g., gas, electric, water, phone, cable, Internet)
- Wholesale retailers (e.g., Sam's Club, Costco, BJ's)
- Wills and powers of attorney (POA)
Create a list of who else to update about your new last name by reviewing your email inbox and sent folder, phone contacts, and postal mail pile.
Conclusion
After getting married, many couples want to change their name. It's not as hard as you may think. Your marriage certificate is your name change checklist starting point.
If you want an easy way to make these changes, consider using our name change kit. It can streamline the time-consuming process of changing your name after marriage.
We hope this article helped you understand the steps needed to make your name change possible. If you have questions, ask them in the comments section below.
Hello!
I'm currently in the process of changing my last name to my husbands, but I had a question about signing the documents. When I sign, should I sign using the new last name or my maiden name? The documents that I am working on are the ss-5 for social security and the passport application. Help!
Thank you!
Sign with your new name.
Hello!
I got married in January of 2018 and did not change my name but wrote my maiden name on the wedding certificate. We got married in Georgia. I now want to change my maiden last name to match my husbands but am in the military stationed in Germany. Will I be able to mail in a certified marriage certificate and change my name that way?
Yes, that's a usual procedure for SS cards. Driver's license will have to be done in person. Were you referring to some other form of ID?
Hi! So when I apply for the marriage license if I list my fiance's last name as my new last name does that mean it is now my legal last name? Do I have to change all my documents etc right away?
It gives you the authority to change your name. It's nonbinding. It doesn't ultimately matter until you change your name on official documents.
No, you can take whatever time you need.
Good afternoon! I got married 5 years ago and did not change my last name. I used my maiden name on my marriage license. I now want to change my last name to reflect my husband’s. Do I have to file a petition with the county court or can I use our marriage license "as is" to change my last name with the SSA? We got married in Colorado and still reside here. Thank you in advance!
Hi Kati. Just use your marriage certificate as-is.
need help my s.s is in my born name and kinder is my marriages name . my x also rip up my id s.s card everything where i have to go the this please my name is crystal lee kinder thats on my id and my w2s and he rip up my w2 to, my born name is wolford thats just on my s.s card.. i work for a year at u.c.i midwest in dayton ohio on tory street here my number [removed]
Hi Crystal. It's not clear what you're asking or needing help for.
Hi there. I am getting married in about two months. I have recently added a Dr. title to my maiden name. How does this impact my name change? If I use my maiden name professionally, do I need to hypenate my name on my marriage license? Is it possible to change my name altogether to my new last name and still use my maiden name professionally? I’m not sure how this works since I earned my degree with my maiden name.
It doesn't. Titles are not part of your legal name.
No.
Some states will allow a name combined from current or prior names, but not something entirely new.
You could do this anyway.
If there's a state licensing board you're concerned about, contact them about name change policies and if they require credentials be reissued under a new name.
Hi, so I have a bit of a weird situation. I got married in Texas in 94, and since then I was using my then husbands last name. I got divorced in 2000 and kept my married name. Everything is in my married name DL, Green Card, SSN, my mortgage, my Passport. Now i been trying to get a new passport and i was told from the german Consulate that I need a Name Declaration. And with out that they would not be able to put my married name back on my passport. The last name that i been using for the last 20+ years. I right now live in Florida. How can I even get one of these Name Declaration after all these years?
Take a look at this German name declaration resource.
Hi , good day , how i can change my name in marriage certificate, my real name in livebirth was Maria Asuncion but in my marriage certificate was Ma. Asuncion, .. Thanks.
To correct a mistake on your marriage certificate, contact the office that recorded it about correcting your record.
Hi! I got married Last January and now residing here in chicago iL with my husband. I am now filing my adjustment of status from tourist to greencard status. In my marriage license and marriage certificate my last name is still my maiden name. What do i need to take my husband's last name particularly when filing for the ff:
SSA, DMV, Bank accounts etc. Can i take my husband's last name automatically afte r our marriage? Thanks
Use your marriage certificate.
Name change doesn't happen automatically. You have to notify the necessary institutions.
Hello me and my fiance got our marriage license in NJ and we are doing the ceremony in may at the court house but it did not say where to put my new last name on the marriage license as i want to change it my fiance's last name i asked the clerk they said i wouldnt change it on the marriage license so where would i be able to change my last name to my future husbands?
Hi Kim. You don't need to change your name on your marriage license or marriage certificate. They're not designed that way. Just use your marriage certificate to change your name to your husband's. It won't be a problem. You can review the dedicated New Jersey name change page for more information.
so Do i have to do an extra step now to officially change my name or is my surname automatically changed to my husband's surname following marriage?
Hi Kim. You'll have to go the extra step to change your name with the proper federal and state agencies.
Hello! I am from abroad and I do not have any official documents here in the US with my name, I just got my European passport. I will be marrying a U.S. citizen in two weeks so basically I would like to change my last name and have it hypernated with those of my husband-to-be. Are you sure that all I need to do is to put mine-his last name on the marriage licence in order to have a name changed? As I will be applying for a Green Card and social security, so I will need to prove my change by using a marriage certificate but I just read somewhere that normally putting husband's name on the marriage licence is not legal as while filling the information on the marriage licence we are not yet officialy married so I cannot sign it with my new name. I am confused. Could you please help me out with that?
Not all states have a spot to put a new name on the marriage application. Either way, you'll be able to change your name with your marriage certificate.
You'll sign your new name on your marriage license. Your marriage certificate may or may not allow you to sign your married name. Regardless, you'll use your marriage certificate to complete your name change after you're married.
I am getting married next summer 2020. My question is, I have section 8 wanna know if I will loose it? Because I really only wanna change my name but not legally sign papers stating we r married. So in essence we will be married in the eyes if god but not legal on paper.
It's based on income, so it could be affected if your overall household income is reevaluated.
If you apply for a marriage license and have it solemnized, there will be public record papers showing you're married. Are you opting for a common-law marriage instead?
Hi, I just got married in January and received my marriage license in the mail yesterday. But as I was reading through this article I realized that when I went to file for my marriage license the lady at the office didn't ask me what last name I was going to take. I am going to be changing my last name to my husband's but now I want to know since I didn't put that in the marriage license, will that be an issue?
Marriage license or certificate? In some states it's the same document. In others, you'll be mailed the original marriage license back, but it's not the same as the certificate you'd use to change your name.
Some states ask this, some do not.
If the option was available to you when you applied, it could be an issue. If not, you needn't worry about it.
I changed my last name on my marriage certicate and now wish I hadn’t.. can I still use my previous last name on all other documents?
Hi Denise. You're not required to commit to a name change specified on your marriage certificate. Do nothing and your current last name remains intact.
I also did the same thing as Denise. MY husband and I eloped in Nevada but we both live in California. I think I would rather not go through all the trouble of name change since I love my current last name. Are there any legal ramification for not changing the name, like does it make the marriage certificate invalid?
Hi Eva. Your marriage certificate and marriage remain valid whether or not you change your name.
I just moved to Illinois after getting married there. My driver's license is still for my Indiana address (where I moved from). I plan to change my surname to my husband's.
Can I change my name and state of residence all at the same time in Illinois? Or do I need to either change my ID to Illinois first, using my maiden name, then change my name…or alternatively change my name in Indiana then switch to Illinois with my married name?
You can do both simultaneously.
I got married 11 years ago in Nevada but never changed my last name. My husband changed his last name this year and now I want to change my last name to his new last name. Can I do this without a court order? I would also like to make my maiden name my middle name (I currently do not have a middle name). Is this possible?
At this point, both name changes would require a court order.
So the Social Security Office will accept a certified marriage certificate to change name even if the certificate does not specifically state the new name in print?
Hi Frank. Every state's marriage certificate design is different. Some will display a new name after marriage, some do not. It depends on how the marriage license application is designed.
If a person got married in a state that doesn't ask for a new name when applying, then the marriage certificate will show their current name. That doesn't stop them from changing their name.
I got married in June, I received new SS card in August. I have not changed anything to my new name yet, Is there a deadline?
Some DMV's do require notification within X-number of days, but the penalty is typically a minor late fee upon renewal. Some are toothless, having no penalty.
To keep this short. I did not change my last name when I married. We have a child together and they share the same last name. I am now a widow and I want to change my last name to my married name and to share the same last name with my son. I have no idea on how to go about this?
You'd use a certified copy of your marriage certificate. Approach it like a typical married name change.
Hello, I am getting Married in 2020 and rearranging my name Completely. My last name will be my first name and I will take my Husbands Last name. Should I change anything before the Marriage or can I do the entire switch at once? We will be married in Florida. Thank you :)
You'd have to go to court for that sort of name change, so it wouldn't matter when you'd do it.
We are a same-sex couple that married in Dec 2018 in Las Vegas. We live in California. Neither of us indicated a desire to change my name on our marriage application. On our marriage certificate, my husband has two last names as is common in Latin America reflecting father’s name and mother’s name respectively. It matches his passport. I would now like to keep my last name but add one of my husband’s legal last names, the one from his father and the one he’d normally use with his last name. May I simply change my name on documents using my marriage certificate even though I didn’t state a change initially when we applied for marriage?
That's to be expected. Nevada's marriage license application doesn't provide a new name space.
Yes, you can.
I absolutely hate my name entirely, and wizh to change it completely. And I will be getting married In 2020, So my question is Can I change my entire name using a marriage certificate in Colorado.
No, you'll have to go to court.
Hi, I'm applying for a driver's license in California and was just wondering if I still need to bring a copy of my marriage certificate if I already have the name change on my ID and ssc? Lmk thanks!
Yes, you still need to show your marriage certificate.
Hi Valera, thanks so much for this helpful blog! I am getting married in NYC and prefer to keep my maiden name for now, but may elect to take my future husband's last name it at a later date (potentially years later) if we have children. Is it ok to add the potential new last name on the marriage license/certificate but not legally change it through SSA/DMV etc until later, if at all? Or is it better to complete the marriage license with my maiden name and then remarry to get a new marriage certificate for the name change?
Yes, this approach keeps your options open.
Choosing a new name at the outset would be less of a hassle down the road. You're not bound that choice.
I got married in June of 2015 in Mississippi. I have my maiden name on my marriage license and finally want to change my name to my wife's last name. Do I need to bring anything else other than my BC, passport, SSC, or DL? I read something about possibly having an issue if the marriage was more than 2 years ago. Also, it said something about providing documents with what would be my new legal name which I do not have.
Hi Laurin. The two year thing you're referencing advises people to present an identity document (expired or unexpired) in the old name. If no such document exist, one in the new name is fine. Along with that, you'll need to bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate to authorize the name change.
I'm getting married in Texas in January, I live in Canada and my boyfriend boyfriend lives in Texas, after we get the marriage license we're gonna go to the courthouse and get married right away. I'd be leaving to come back home 2 days after we get courthouse married. Is that okay? Will I get a copy of the marriage certificate mailed to my home address? Do I have to change my last name in Texas?
Yes, of course.
When you apply for your marriage license, preorder a certified copy of your marriage certificate at the same time and have it mailed to your home address.
No.
Greetings, may I know how many copies of the marriage license I should get? Do they require originals for DMV and SSN or will photocopies suffice? I don’t want to keep going back and forth and would like to order as much copies I need. Thank you!
You can get away with one copy. However, if you mail out your name change documents along with your certificate, you'll have to wait to receive it back before changing your name with whichever institution's next in line.
And to be clear, you'll need copies of your marriage "certificate" and not your "license." In a few states both refer to the same document, but most states distinguish between the two.
Photocopies for such government agencies will not be accepted. It will have to be an original or certified copy. Lesser organizations would probably accept a photocopy.
More copies will allow you to change your name with more organizations in parallel. For instance, if you had two copies you could dispatch one to the SSA and one to the passport office.
I got married in January and hyphenated my last name on my SS card only. I want to drop my married name now so that it matches my kids. How do I do that?
At this point, you'd have to obtain a court ordered name change.
Hello, I was recentlyarried in Texas and I want his last name. I did not change my name on my marriage license. Was I supposed to do that?
No, not in Texas.
I am a US citizen, my husband is Mexican citizen. We got married in Nayarit, Mexico on April 17th of 2017 we had a civil marriage and all US required documents for me were turned into mexico and so was our marriage license. We are close to the end of the process with the US embassy on getting my husband here to the US. I would like to take my husbands last name……. is this even possible although i was married aboard and it has been over a year that we got married?
Yes, it's possible. The procedure is the same as if you were married in the U.S. Obtain a certified (or equivalent) copy your marriage certificate from Mexico to complete your name change at home.
Without marriage certificate how to change wife adhar details
Hi Srinivas. Are you saying you don't have a marriage certificate or that it wasn't accepted?
hi, I recently got married In las Vegas. I live in California. when I filled out the pre application for a license online I wasn't asked what my new last name would be but when I went to the actual office in las Vegas she printed the paper out and had that option on there. she was rude and just handed us the paper after I asked her about it. I was wondering how would I be able to change my last name in California?
Hi Stephanie. Just use a certified copy of your Nevada marriage certificate and you'll be fine.
thank you
Hi, I am getting married in OH 9 days after my license expires. Can I just bring a copy of the marriage license with my new last name to the BMV as proof of a name change? Or do I have to get a new license when it expires and then get another one a couple weeks later?
You need to bring a certified copy of your marriage abstract.
That's entirely up to you.
I was married in the Philippines last 2017 but i did not changed my name at all . Im working herein Greece and all my ids , my passport and drivers licensed are in my maiden name . Now my husband is a US citizen and wanted to petition me to live in US with him. Do i need to change my name in my passport in able for us to have the same surname or can i keep my old name my maiden name in my passport? Does the immigration will question me for not changing name after marriage?
No, you don't have to change your passport name.
It's possible, but you're not required to make any such change.
I have some of the same issues other people have with no space to put my new last name on certificate.
I also need to change our son's name….long story as to why he has my maiden name. I want to change his name to his father's last name. When his father finally signed for the birth certificate they did not change his last name 15 years later when we voted married i figured I'd look into it since I have to change my name. Why not do it all at once. What do I do?
Hi Andrea. It's not clear what you'll be changing your last name to. If you're changing your name to your spouse, your marriage certificate would typically suffice. As for your son, you'll have to petition the court for a child name change. It's typically handled by the family court, but it varies by state.
I was married in hawaii in 2012 and elected not to change my name at the time. I now live in nevada and would like to take my husbands name. Will i have to file a petition with the courts to do so?
No, you don't have to go to court. It's not too late. There's no time barrier.
When I got married a couple years ago in OregonI put a hyphenated last name on my marriage certificate (maiden-his). Shortly after we got married, I lost my driver’s license and when I went to get a new one I showed my marriage license and got the hyphenated name on my license. However, I never switched any other documents or accounts (SS, passport, banks, HR, etc.). I never ended up used this hyphenated name socially and have decided I’d rather just use my maiden name.
I’m unsure what to do moving forward since I basically went partway through the name change process but now want to go back. Can I get a new new driver’s license with my maiden name if I show them my passport and/or SS card? Will I have to get a legal name change? Thanks.
In this instance, you would have to go and get a legal name change through the courts. Doing it a second go round wouldn't work by showing your social security card or passport in your maiden name.
I am getting married in CA and want to change my first name and take my husband's last name. What is the best order to do this? Should I first change my first name with the court, then take is last name on the marriage certificate or keep my name as is on the marriage certificate and petition for the name change (new first name and new last name) after we get married?
Hi Sunny. Since you have to go to court to change your first name, you could kill two birds with one stand and just change both simultaneously.
I'm in a similar situation. I want to take my husbands last name, and change my first name. We are getting married in a month, so on the marriage certificate, do I put the first name I want to change it to? Or do I keep my current first name on there?
Hi Alexandra. You wouldn't be able to change your first name through marriage. it would have to be done through court. When applying for your marriage license, use your current legal first name.
Can I drop my first name and just keep my middle name as my first name on my marriage license when I apply. I've never liked my first name. In getting married soon in Las Vegas. .I live in Arizona
No, that's not possible.
Hello! I live in Virginia (Loudoun County). I got married 6/22 in Africa, and I would like to take my husband’s last name. I went to ss office and changed my last name. I received my new card in the mail recently. I planning on going the the DMV soon to get it changed as well. A colleague of mine mentioned that I would need a court order to change my last name at the DMV, since I did not get married in the US. Any info will be helpful as I was not asked at the ss office for a court paper just my marriage certificate from Africa which has my maiden name. Thank you.
The Virginia DMV change of address or name page doesn't distinguish between a foreign and domestic marriage certificate. As long as it's an original or certified copy, you should be fine.
Awesome! Yes, it’s the original marriage certificate. Thanks so much for you reply.
I live in VA and just got married. On the form to request additional copies of the marriage license, it has blank spaces for each spouses name. I put my husband's name, but I'm unsure if I put my maiden name or married name, or if it matters.
Hi Steph. This assists in searching for your record. If your marriage license was issued in your maiden name, specifying your maiden on certificate copy requests will make it easier for the circuit court to locate and send to you.
Hello i want know when i remarry my name and get my marriage certificate but i not update in ssn it is legal marriage certificate
Hi Mick. Yes, your marriage certificate is perfectly valid whether or not you update your name with the Social Security Administration.
I was marry 2010 now i change my name and i remarry my name with my wife i got new marriage date 2018 can i use my 2010 marriage date
Use it for what? I'm not sure what you're asking here.
I mean the first marriage certificat
Hi Mick. You'd have to use your the marriage certificate from your most recent marriage.
Hello! We were married 3 weeks ago in Florida (Brevard County). Our marriage certificate has come in the mail. My concern is that it does not state my new last name. Only my birth name. So how will they know my new last name without is stating it on the certificate? Do I just take the certificate to the Social Security Office and tell them the name change!
That's to be expected. Florida marriage certificates don't list new names after marriage. It's a non-issue.
That's what you'll need to do. Take the certificate as-is to the SSA to change your name.
I will be married in Vermont but reside in Ma. Vermont marriage applications do not indicate preference for surname. I believe the actual license will also state my current surname. Would the Vermont marriage license be enough to change my surname to my husbands or would I have to go to probate court in Ma?
Yes, sure it will.
I would like to change my first name as well when I get married, completely new slate as it were. Do I have to do that separately from my marriage/last name change, or can I do it all at once?
Hi Rachael. You'll have to change your first name separately. If you're going to go for a first name change, you can change your last name, or really any part of your name, simultaneously.
Hi Valera, me and my husband got married in Philippines 8 years ago. I am planning to change my last name to his last name. Can I change my middle name with my maiden name without filing a court petition?. We live in Texas. Thank you.
Yes, you can.
Thank you.
Hi Valera,
My fiancé and I will be getting married in Ohio soon. My fiancé has two last names and we both would like to be known as Mr. & Mrs. his FIRST LAST NAME once we get married. Are we both able to make this last name change with just a marriage certificate?
I understand that Ohio does not have a designated space to write in last names to use once married (is this correct?). Would the SSA/BMV accept both our last name changes as valid?
Thanks!
Hi Zoe. Dropping half the last name would require a name change via court petition.
Hi
I got married in nj 8/27 there was no option on the marriage license that I would like to take my husbands name. Will I be able to do this when I apply for the certificate or do I have to go through the court?
Thank you
You didn't overlook anything. New Jersey marriage license applications don't provide spaces to specify a new name after you're married.
You'll be able to change your name fine using your marriage certificate.
I would like to change my first and last name after marriage. Would that be possible. To not only change my last name but my first as well?
Hi Marie. You must obtain a court order to change your first name. Your last name can be changed through marriage.
Hi Valera,
I got married in Massachusetts but live in New York State. On the marriage license, and now on the certificate, I specified that my surname after marriage would be my husband's. Massachusetts is one of the states where the name change is therefore automatic after our wedding. What would happen if I never went to the SSA or DMV to actually change it? What does this "automatic" name change actually apply to?
Hi Amy. It doesn't automatically change your name with the SSA and DMV. It provides you the authority to do so, but without you taking proactive steps to change it with those institutions, they have no way of knowing your intentions.
Hi, I got married 4 years ago in Texas and still currently living in Texas. I kept my maiden name on the marriage license and now wanting to change it to my husband's last name. Will I have to go to court to file the name change?
No, you don't need to go to court. You can use your marriage certificate.
can I use the license that was given to us or I have to obtain one from the clerk's office?
Hi Binh. As long as your marriage license (which is the same as your certificate in Texas) is a "recorded" original or certified copy, then you can use it. Otherwise, you'll have to order a copy from the county clerk that gave you your license and subsequently recorded it.
Hello,
I currently live in Arizona. I will be getting married in Texas soon then moving to Texas the following month. I would like to change my name to my husband's last name after we get married but I am not sure the best way to do it. If I change my last name before I move, I would have to get a new driver's ID, registration for my car, etc. Then i would have to do that all over again when I move to Texas. Do you think if I change my last name before I move and only change it for my ssc and wait to update everything else, I would have issues getting a new ID in Texas with my new last name?
It's doubtful you'll face any problem, as you'll just be undergoing a garden variety name change.
I got married and started using my husband's last name. is it possible to not use my original last name anymore as a middle name? Because it is traditional in the Philippines to make my original last name as a middle name after getting married.
There's a good likelihood that you can. Take a look at the maiden name to middle name article for details. Pay special attention to the end of the article that points out the few state's where it's not possible through marriage.
I got married 4 years ago in Texas, but I did not change my last name. I used my maiden name on my marriage license and certificate (and did not fill out the name change portion of the application). We are having a child, and I now want to change my last name to reflect my husband’s. I still live in Texas. Do I have to file a petition or is there a way to change it using my marriage license?
I don't believe the Texas marriage license application even provides a name change section. Do you recall differently?
No, there's no need to petition the court. Use a certified copy of your marriage certificate to complete your name change.
I live in Hawaii. I took my husband's last name. He died. I married again. I signed the marriage certificate with my new husband's last name. I no longer want this new last name. I want to stay with my deceased husband's last name, which my life, my parent's will, and my entire legal identity is built around.
I have not changed my social security card, driver's license, passport, etc. I do not want to change anything.
Can I do nothing and stay with my deceased husband's last name?
Will this affect beneficiary status on current husband's death with spousal social security benefits as I must prove I am his wife, but my name on all my ID does not match what is on the marriage certificate?
Will it affect other legal situations when I need to prove I am his wife but my ID does not match how I signed the marriage certificate?
Is Hawaii a state where my name has already changed legally anyway by signing the marriage certificate but I have not done the final work by going to DMV etc?
I don't want my current husband's last name.
Thank you!
Yes, do nothing and everything will stay the same.
No, as you'd be able to prove your identity if the need arises.
No.
No, you have to take proactivate steps to change it. It's not automatic.
Thank you SO much, Valera! :)!!!
You do a generous public service here by easing the minds of many. You change lives, really, and for the better.
You are appreciated.
Thanks for your kind words, SSV. It's much appreciated.
I want to change my first and middle names. I plan going through the county clerk and judge and so forth. There is a spot where they notify the birth certificate. Is there a form i need to file to get it changed on the marriage license?
I have to have the original judge decree stating it was changed for the bc and I'm assuming I'll need to send it along with a copy of the original marriage license and I'm keeping the same last name of my husband.
And also there's a spot on the request to change name file asking if my name has been changed before then asks for court case number and so forth. All I did was go from maiden to his name when we got married. Should I put that down? Sorry this is very confusing.
You must obtain a court order to change your first name. I assume that's what you're doing?
If the county clerk were to permit a name change on your marriage license (which isn't assured), you'd use your court order.
The court order alone should suffice, but you'll have to contact the vital records office for certainty.
It's not clear from your description if it's asking two questions (name changed before and applicable courthouse) or one (was name changed by court).
If it's the former, then you'd answer that you changed your name while the inapplicable court case number question would be left alone. If it's the latter, then it wouldn't apply to you as a simple name change via marriage doesn't go through the court.
The court clerk would be able to clarify any confusing aspect of your court filing before your hearing.
Hi ! I live in FL & on my marriage certificate I do not see a space where I could’ve added my husbands last name . We’ve now been married for 2 years and I would like to add his to mine . So for example “ Mylastname-Hislastname” . Now I am wondering what is next ? Should I have added his name on the marriage certificate? Or can I use the one I have with my maiden name on it to make the change ?
Florida doesn't provide such spaces, so no loss there.
No, as the application didn't ask for it. It was only interested in your legal name at that time.
That's it. Just use your two year old certificate.
Got married in LAS Vegas, NV live in AZ 2014 here we are 4 years later and I never changed my name. Can I still do so and how do I do this? He is not very happy that I never did. Also can he change his as well he wants to add mine to his so our baby has the identical last name as the both of us.
Yes, the same way you normally would: using a certified copy of your Nevada marriage certificate.
He'll need to get a court order.
Hello,
We are getting married in a week, I'm from Brasil he is American. I do not want to change my name to his, to…… much trouble (2 citizen ship and politics). Can I only sign the married license with his last name and not all other docs. Or do I have too change then all in both countries. Please help
If your marriage application provides an area to choose a new last name, you could specify it. However, you will have to sign your current legal name.
You don't have to change anything, regardless of what's on the license.
Hi. I was married August 5th here in Connecticut. I went to SSA yesterday and changed my ss card to heather, maiden name for middle name, husband's name. So now I wait for new card to go to DMV and change name on license. Then what? Am I legally changed? I know I still have to do passport, bank, etc. But is that really it? And I legally ditched my birthday middle name (absolutely my intention though)…
Thank you :)
Since your name change was processed by the SSA a day ago, you can go to the DMV anytime. If they perform an inquiry on the SSA database, your updated name should be visible.
Yes, then it's really legally change.
I was married in Arizona two years ago and I'd like to change my last name now. Even though my maiden name is on the certificate, I was actually never asked if I planned on changing my name, do I need to go through the court to change it or will my marriage certificate work?
Hi Amber. I believe Arizona marriage license applications only ask for the current last name and not what you might change to. You wouldn't have to go to court. A certified copy of your marriage certificate will do.
Hi Valerie – I live in California and am getting married soon. Is it possible to sign the marriage license to take my fiance's last name BUT not change it on my other legal docs? Can I just keep everything else as is and call myself Mrs. (husband's last name)? As long as my passport/ bank/DL/etc still match each other, do they have to match the name on my certificate?
Yes, of course.
You needn't change any of your documents. You can just use "husband's last name" informally/socially.
You don't have to update these documents to match the name on your certificate.
I got married in Maryland. I'm going to the Social Security office to change my name, and I have a certified copy of my marriage certificate. After I leave there, I'm going to the MVA to change my name on my driver's license. Do I need a second certified marriage certificate for the MVA? Will the SSA give me documentation that I can use to prove I changed it there?
You don't need a second certificate. The SSA will not hold onto your certificate.
You might be given a temporary card. However, if the MVA queries the SSA database, they may want to see your new name before processing your driver's license update. It can take around 24 hours for this sort of data refresh.
Hi, I got married in VA three years ago, and after getting married, I didn't change my last name, I kept my maiden name, I did receive the certificate of our marriage, but now I want to change it to my husband's last name. What should I do? Is it too late?
Just use a certified copy of your marriage certificate to complete a standard name change through marriage.
I want to change my full name and I’m getting married I was wondering if I should legally change my name first or get married and do the full name change later
I assume you're going to be changing your name through the court system. If you change your name before marriage, do you intend to change it again after marriage. If not, then it doesn't matter whether you change your name before or after marriage.
I got married 2 years ago in Washington but did not change my last name. I also kept my maiden name on my marriage license and certificate. I now want to change my last name to reflect my husband’s. Do I have to file a petition in or is there a way to change it using my marriage license?
Hi Jelisha. You don't have to go to court. Just use your marriage certificate.
I got married 2 years ago but did not change my last name. I used my maiden name on my marriage license and certificate. I now want to change my last name to reflect my husband’s. Do I have to file a petition or is there a way to change it using my marriage license?
That depends. Which state will you be changing your name in?
I got married 18 years ago in Ontario, I’m using my married name for bank, mortgage and taxes but I never changed my documents e.g. drivers license etc… I just have my marriage license proving my married name but nobody has asked me questions about that is that fine?
Hi Michelle. It may not be causing you problems now, but it may later. It's like a crack in a glass that might (or might not) eventually splinter.
My Husband would like me to add his name on , when we get married on the Lic. Certificated. But he doesn't care if I change it anywhere else. How does that work? Can I add a name change to the Marriage Lic. and then not change anything else?- Thanks !
Assuming you're in a state where the marriage license application provides a spot to specify a new name, you could add his. Your marriage license and marriage certificate will reflect this name. After you're married, you can just ignore it. Whatever new name is specified on your license/certificate is nonbinding.
I was married in 2012 in NYC but kept my maiden name. Now I would like to change it to my husbands last name WITHOUT changing my birth certificate. Can this be done? If so how?
Hi Jackie. If you didn't specify your husband's last name as a new surname on the marriage license application, you'll likely have to get a court-petitioned name change.
Hi there. I just applied for a marriage license today and was caught off guard that New York State does not allow two last names without hyphenation. In a panic, I chose to hyphenate my maiden name and my finances last name. Is it possible to change my new surname to only his last name on the license BEFORE we actually get married and get a marriage certificate? Or, when I go to change my surname with Social Security, can they just use his last name instead of both mine and his hyphenated? If not.. what are my options at this point to change my new last name to be just his? Thanks!
It's easiest to just apply for a new marriage license and have the old one voided.
I got married in Rhode Island 2 years ago, and my wife signed her "new" married name, which was my last name. She never changed her name on anything else, she is still using the name from her first marriage. She just filed for divorce, still using her previously married name. Since she never changed her name on anything else, is our married legally binding? I hope not now that I know she was never really invested.
Yes, it is.
Hi, my husband and I were married 10 years ago and at the time I kept my maiden name. My husband changed his surname a few years ago because of some family issues. (He wanted to take his birth father's name instead of his step fathers) Now I would like to change my surname to his. I assume I have to go to court to do this? What court, where do I start? I live in Michigan.
You'll go to circuit court. You can check out the Michigan name change article that goes into detail about what you'll need to do.
I recently got married and cannot take off of work to physically go to the ssa office. I know I can do this through the mail, but they do not accept photo copies. Does this mean I will have to send my drivers license through the mail? Of course I would send it certified, but I am still iffy about this. Has anyone tried getting their social security card name changed by mail? How long does it take and is sending my license safe?
Correct, no photocopies.
Yes, that's the alternative.
"Certified" only refers to your marriage certificate, not your ID. Certified copy, that is.
It's a common practice.
It varies. It could take 2-4 weeks.
Perhaps USPS priority mail with signature confirmation and tracking would set your mind at ease? Alternatively, you can acquire a duplicate license from your state and send that instead. Or obtain a state-issued ID card and send that. Or send your passport.
Whatever identity document you send will be returned to you.
My fiance wants to change his last name to his step dads before we get married. Can he just write it on the marriage license? Or do we have to pay to change it?
Hi Christina. Your fiance would have to go to court to change his last name to his stepdad's. Whoever will process the marriage license application will want to see identification to confirm the names, so placing another name on the license wouldn't work. Even if it were applied to the license, getting it changed with any federal or state institution is highly unlikely.
Hi,
I got married in 2011, and I hyphenated my last name
from Mendoza to Mendoza-Smith. My social security number and driver license are Mendoza-Smith. Recently, I just want to change it to my husband's last name to Smith. Can I change it to Smith? Where should I start?
Yes, you can change it back, but it wouldn't be a marriage-based name change. It would be a court-based name change. You'll have to file a name change petition with the proper court in your state or jurisdiction.
I want to mail the SSA my marriage certificate to have my name changed that way (instead of going in person to the SSA). Will the SSA send me the certificate back?
Yes, your certificate will be returned once they're done with it.
Hello,
I got married in California 20 years ago but now live in Texas. When we got married I signed the marriage certificate with my maiden name. I did not take on my husbands last name. I’ve been wanting to change it now to His last name. Do I have to go to court to get this changed?
No, you should be able to change your name using your marriage certificate.
Hello,
I'll be getting married this May. I was wondering if i can change my first name when i'm going through the process of changing my last name. I've always been called by my middle name, so i would like to my middle name to be my first name and, first name be my middle name. Can i do that when i filing forms to change to my married name? Or is that something i need to file through court?
You'll have to go to court.