What you need to do to change your last name after marriage
Changing your last name after marriage requires you to update your name with the Social Security Administration first, then with your state's vital records office, then with each agency and organization that has your records. You cannot change your name on a driver's license or passport until Social Security has processed the change. The order matters: Social Security, then state vital records, then everything else. Most people complete the process in four to eight weeks, though some states move faster.
You will need your marriage certificate, a government-issued ID, and proof of your current address. Some states require you to appear in person at a vital records office; others accept mail-in requests. The cost ranges from free to about $50 depending on your state and which documents you need certified copies of.
Key Takeaways
- Start with Social Security by visiting your local office or submitting Form SS-5 by mail, and bring your marriage certificate and current ID.
- After Social Security approves the change, request a new Social Security card, which takes one to two weeks.
- Update your state vital records office next — this is usually your county clerk or health department — and order certified copies of your marriage certificate with your new name.
- Once you have the updated Social Security card and certified marriage certificate, update your driver's license, passport, bank accounts, employer, and insurance policies in that order.
- Some states allow you to change your name through the marriage license process itself, which can save time if you do it before the license expires.
Step 1: Notify Social Security
Visit your local Social Security office in person or submit Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) by mail. You can find your nearest office at ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Bring your marriage certificate (original or certified copy), your current Social Security card, and a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or passport.
If you mail the form, include a photocopy of your marriage certificate and ID. Social Security will process the request and mail you a new card with your new name. This typically takes one to two weeks. You do not need to wait for the new card to arrive before moving to the next step, but you will need to show the old card or a receipt from Social Security when you update your vital records.
Step 2: Update your state vital records
Contact your county clerk's office or state vital records office — the exact agency depends on your state. Search "[your state] vital records office" or call your county clerk to find the right department. You will request a certified copy of your marriage certificate with your new name already printed on it. Some states print your new name on the certificate automatically after Social Security notifies them; others require you to request it.
Some states allow you to change your name through the marriage license process before the license expires (usually 30 to 90 days after issuance). If you do this, you can skip the separate vital records request. Ask your county clerk whether your state offers this option when you first get married. If you miss that window, you will need to submit a separate request to the vital records office, which costs $5 to $25 depending on the state and how many certified copies you order.
Step 3: Update your driver's license and passport
Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles with your new Social Security card (or the receipt from Social Security if the card has not arrived yet), your marriage certificate, and your current driver's license. Some states allow you to renew your license by mail if you are only changing your name; others require an in-person visit. Check your state's DMV website before you go.
For a U.S. passport, mail Form DS-11 or DS-82 (depending on whether your passport is still valid) to the address listed on the State Department website, along with your current passport, marriage certificate, and a new photo. Processing takes four to six weeks by standard mail. If you need the passport sooner, you can apply in person at a passport acceptance facility and pay an expedited fee.
Step 4: Update banks, employers, and insurance
Contact your bank, credit card companies, and investment accounts with your new name and updated ID. Most banks accept a phone call followed by a mailed copy of your marriage certificate and new driver's license. Some require you to visit a branch in person. Update your employer's payroll and HR records so your W-2 and tax documents reflect your new name.
Notify your health insurance provider, auto insurance, homeowner's or renter's insurance, and life insurance. Each company has its own process, but most accept a phone call and a mailed copy of your marriage certificate. Update your voter registration, professional licenses, and any memberships or subscriptions that have your name on file. This step has no hard deadline, but doing it within a few months prevents confusion with tax documents and official records.
What documents you will need at each step
| Step | Documents to bring or mail | Where to go |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security | Marriage certificate (original or certified copy), current Social Security card, government photo ID | Local Social Security office or mail Form SS-5 |
| Vital records | Marriage certificate, Social Security receipt or new card | County clerk or state vital records office |
| Driver's license | New Social Security card (or receipt), marriage certificate, current driver's license | State Department of Motor Vehicles |
| Passport | Current passport, marriage certificate, new photo, completed Form DS-11 or DS-82 | Mail to State Department address or visit passport acceptance facility |
| Banks and employers | Marriage certificate, new driver's license | Phone, mail, or in-person visit to each institution |
Common delays and how to avoid them
The most common delay is submitting documents to Social Security or vital records without a certified copy of your marriage certificate. A photocopy or a certificate printed at home will not work. Order certified copies from your county clerk when you first get married, or request them when you update your vital records. Order extra copies — you will need at least two or three for different agencies.
Another delay happens when people try to update their driver's license before Social Security has processed the name change. Social Security and the DMV share records, and if the DMV cannot confirm the change with Social Security, they will reject your application. Wait for your new Social Security card to arrive or get a receipt from Social Security before you visit the DMV.
Some people delay because they are unsure whether they want to change their name. You do not have to change your name after marriage — it is optional in all U.S. states. If you decide to change your name later, the process is the same, but you will need to file a separate petition with your court in some states. Changing your name within a few months of marriage is simpler because you can use the marriage certificate as proof of the name change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name before I get the marriage certificate?
No. You need the certified marriage certificate to start the process with Social Security. The certificate is the legal proof that your name changed. You can request a certified copy from your county clerk as soon as the marriage license is filed, which is usually within a few days of the ceremony.
Do I have to change my name if I get married?
No. Changing your name after marriage is optional in all U.S. states. You can keep your current name, take your spouse's name, hyphenate your names, or use a combination. If you do not change your name, you do not need to notify Social Security or any government agency.
What if I change my mind after I have already changed my name?
You can change your name again by filing a petition with your court. The process and cost vary by state. Contact your county courthouse or a family law attorney for the specific steps in your state. You will then repeat the Social Security and vital records updates with your new name.
How long does it take to change my name on everything?
Social Security takes one to two weeks. Vital records takes one to four weeks depending on your state. Driver's license and passport processing times vary by state and whether you pay for expedited service. Most people complete all updates within four to eight weeks if they start immediately after marriage.
Do I need to change my name with my employer right away?
You should update your employer's records within a few months so your W-2 and tax documents match your Social Security records. If there is a mismatch, the IRS may delay your tax refund or flag your return. Contact your HR or payroll department with your new name and updated ID.