How to Change Your Name After Marriage

You usually don't need a court order

A marriage name change is the simplest kind. When you marry, you can take your spouse's last name, hyphenate, or combine names — and your certified marriage certificate proves the change. You don't file a petition, pay a court fee, or attend a hearing. The one exception is choosing a brand-new name unrelated to either spouse, which some states still route through a court petition.

Order two or three certified copies of your marriage certificate from the county or state vital-records office where you married. A photocopy won't work — Social Security and the passport agency want a certified copy with the raised seal.

The order to update your IDs

Social Security comes first, and it's free. File Form SS-5 with your certified marriage certificate and proof of identity; the new card arrives in about 7–10 business days with the same number and your new name. Do this before the DMV or passport, because both check your name against the Social Security record.

Next, update your driver's license in person at your state DMV, then your US passport (Form DS-5504 is free if your passport was issued within the last year, otherwise DS-82 for about $130). After your ID shows the new name, update your bank, employer and payroll, and everything else.

What varies by state

The federal steps — Social Security and passport — are identical everywhere. What differs is how you order a certified marriage certificate and which state DMV office to visit. Pick your state below for its exact vital-records and DMV links.