Table of Contents:
- Common Reasons to Change the Name on Your Driver’s License
- Why It’s Important to Have a Valid Driver’s License
- How to Change Your Driver’s License Name in 4 Simple Steps
- Step 1: Gather Your Required Information
- Step 2: Notify the Social Security Administration (SSA)
- Step 3: Notify Your Local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
- Step 4: Confirm Your Requested Changes
- Can I Change My Driver’s License Name Online?
- Get Your Vital Records at VRO
There’s almost no more important piece of identification than your driver’s license. This form of ID lets you drive a vehicle legally. Beyond that, it often serves as a valid form of identification. But you may encounter a time when your current name no longer reflects what’s on your license.
So, what should you do if the name of your driver’s license doesn’t match the name you currently use? Thankfully, changing what’s on your license is possible. You only need to learn how to change a driver’s license name. We’ll also answer the question: Can I change my driver’s license name online?
Common Reasons to Change the Name on Your Driver’s License
Life changes, and sometimes, so do the names we use. There are many reasons why changing driver’s license-related information is necessary.
Common reasons for changing the name on a driver’s license (or similar form of ID) include:
- Getting married
- Getting divorced or legally separated
- A court-ordered name change
- Gender transition
Why It’s Important to Have a Valid Driver’s License
No matter why you want to change your driver’s license name, it’s a must to ensure the information on your driver’s license reflects this decision. You often need an accurate driver’s license for:
- Proving your identity to open a new account
- Booking work or personal flights
- Receiving medical care
- Having access to prescribed medication
What happens if your driver’s license and real name don’t match? You can face many issues, like being denied access to services, being unable to verify your identity, and delaying your travel plans.
How to Change Your Driver’s License Name in 4 Simple Steps
Step 1: Gather Your Required Information
Changing what’s on your driver’s license typically requires contacting the DMV. Before we cover that in the next step, you’ll need to grab a few things. These items typically include:
- Legal Name Change-Related Document: What this document looks like depends on why you need or want to change your name. A marriage certificate or a court order are valid examples.
- An Accepted Form of ID: A driver’s license or other state-issued ID
- Proof of Residency: Examples can include a utility bill, bank statement, or other document proving you’re a local resident.
- Your Social Security Number: Typically, your Social Security card.
What’s required for how to change a driver’s license name can vary by state. So, always check the DMV requirements in your area.
Step 2: Notify the Social Security Administration (SSA)
Note: If you’ve already completed this step, you can skip this section and go to step 3.
You must follow a specific order when changing your driver’s license name. The SSA is the first authority you want to notify about name-related changes. That’s because the DMV utilizes what the SSA has on file when updating your personal information.
If you need to update your name with the SSA, follow these simple steps:
- Obtain and complete Form FSS-5.
- Gather supporting information, often including a legal name change-related document and a valid proof of identity.
- Submit your information by mail or in person (depending on whether you live near any U.S. Social Security Office or Federal Benefits Unit.)
It takes time for the SSA to complete your requested name change. Most name changes happen in 7 to 10 business days.
Step 3: Notify Your Local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Once you confirm the SSA has updated your name, you’re ready to update it with the DMV. Most states require you to complete this process in person, as most need you to take a new driver’s license picture. You may also need to complete additional forms after arriving at the DMV.
You’ll also need to pay a fee to complete the process of changing your driver’s license name with the DMV. This fee varies by city. You’ll typically pay from $10 to $30. Check your local DMV’s website for accurate price information.
Step 4: Confirm Your Requested Changes
Depending on your state, you’ll receive an updated driver’s license at the DMV or obtain a temporary one that’s legally valid until your permanent one is ready. As you accept any new form of ID, check that your information is correct. If not, you must notify the DMV to have this problem corrected.
Can I Change My Driver’s License Name Online?
Typically, no. However, you might be able to complete some parts of this process online. For instance, some states will let residents schedule DMV appointments or obtain required forms online before in-person visits. Visit your DMV’s website to learn if they allow online name changes.
Get Your Vital Records at VRO
How to change your driver’s license name may seem daunting. Thankfully, it’s a fairly simple process. Save time tracking down certified copies of legal documents, including marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and more by choosing Vital Records Online.