If you've recently changed your name, you'll need to update your driver's license to reflect the change. The process for doing this varies from state to state, but there are some general steps that are common to most states. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps you need to take to change your name on your driver's license.
First, you'll need to gather the required documents. These typically include your new Social Security card, your marriage certificate (if you changed your name due to marriage), or a court order approving your name change. You may also need to bring your old driver's license and a fee for the new license.
Once you have all the required documents, you can visit your local driver's license office. Be sure to arrive early, as there may be a long line. When you get to the office, you'll need to fill out an application for a new driver's license. The application will ask for your new name, your address, and other personal information.
driver licence change name
Update license after name change.
- Gather required documents.
- Visit local driver's license office.
- Fill out application for new license.
- Pay fee and submit application.
- Receive new license with updated name.
Note: Requirements may vary by state.
Gather required documents.
The first step in changing your name on your driver's license is to gather the required documents. The specific documents you need will vary from state to state, but there are some general documents that are commonly required.
1. Proof of identity: You will need to provide proof of your identity. This can be done with a current driver's license, a passport, or a state-issued ID card.
2. Proof of name change: You will also need to provide proof of your name change. This can be done with a marriage certificate, a divorce decree, or a court order approving your name change.
3. Social Security card: You will need to provide your Social Security card. This is required in most states to verify your identity and to update your records with the Social Security Administration.
4. Fee: You will need to pay a fee for the new driver's license. The fee varies from state to state, so be sure to check with your local driver's license office for the exact amount.
In addition to these general documents, you may also need to provide additional documents, depending on your state's requirements. For example, some states require proof of residency, such as a utility bill or a lease agreement. Others may require a vision test or a driving test.
Visit local driver's license office.
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can visit your local driver's license office to change your name on your license.
- Locate your local driver's license office: You can find the address and hours of operation for your local driver's license office on the website of your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
- Arrive early: It's a good idea to arrive early at the driver's license office, especially if you are visiting during peak hours. This will help you avoid long lines and wait times.
- Take a number: When you arrive at the driver's license office, you will need to take a number. This number will be used to call you up to the counter when it is your turn to be served.
- Fill out an application: Once your number is called, you will need to fill out an application for a new driver's license. The application will ask for your new name, your address, and other personal information.
Once you have filled out the application, you will need to submit it to the clerk at the counter, along with your required documents and the fee for the new license. The clerk will review your application and documents and, if everything is in order, they will issue you a new driver's license with your updated name.
Fill out application for new license.
Once you have submitted your required documents and fee to the clerk at the driver's license office, you will need to fill out an application for a new driver's license.
- Personal information: The application will ask for your personal information, such as your new name, your address, your date of birth, and your Social Security number.
- Driver's license information: You will also need to provide information about your current driver's license, such as the license number and the expiration date.
- Reason for name change: You will need to indicate the reason for your name change on the application. Common reasons include marriage, divorce, or court order.
- Signature: You will need to sign the application before submitting it to the clerk.
Once you have filled out the application, you will need to submit it to the clerk. The clerk will review your application and, if everything is in order, they will issue you a new driver's license with your updated name.
Pay fee and submit application.
Once you have filled out the application for a new driver's license, you will need to pay the fee for the new license. The fee varies from state to state, so be sure to check with your local driver's license office for the exact amount.
You can typically pay the fee with cash, check, or credit card. Some states also offer the option to pay online.
Once you have paid the fee, you will need to submit your application to the clerk at the driver's license office. The clerk will review your application and, if everything is in order, they will issue you a new driver's license with your updated name.
In some states, you may be required to take a vision test or a driving test before you can be issued a new license. Be sure to ask about these requirements at your local driver's license office.
Once you have submitted your application and paid the fee, you will typically receive your new driver's license within a few weeks. You can check with your local driver's license office for more information about the processing time.
Receive new license with updated name.
Once your application for a new driver's license has been processed, you will receive your new license in the mail. The processing time varies from state to state, but you can typically expect to receive your new license within a few weeks.
When you receive your new license, be sure to check to make sure that your name is spelled correctly and that all of the information on the license is accurate. If there are any errors, you should contact your local driver's license office immediately.
Your new driver's license will be valid for the same period of time as your old license. You will need to renew your license before it expires in order to continue driving legally.
It is important to keep your driver's license up to date, especially if you change your name or address. If you are caught driving with an expired or invalid license, you could be fined or even arrested.
Changing your name on your driver's license is a relatively simple process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can update your license quickly and easily.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about changing your name on your driver's license:
Question 1: What documents do I need to bring to the driver's license office?
Answer: The documents you need to bring will vary from state to state, but generally you will need to bring your old driver's license, your new Social Security card, and proof of your name change, such as a marriage certificate or a court order.
Question 2: How much does it cost to change my name on my driver's license?
Answer: The fee for changing your name on your driver's license varies from state to state. You can check with your local driver's license office for the exact amount.
Question 3: How long does it take to get a new driver's license with my updated name?
Answer: The processing time for a new driver's license varies from state to state, but you can typically expect to receive your new license within a few weeks.
Question 4: Do I need to take a driving test or a vision test to get a new driver's license with my updated name?
Answer: In some states, you may be required to take a vision test or a driving test before you can be issued a new driver's license. Be sure to ask about these requirements at your local driver's license office.
Question 5: What should I do if I lose my new driver's license?
Answer: If you lose your new driver's license, you should contact your local driver's license office immediately. You will need to apply for a replacement license and pay a fee.
Question 6: Can I change my name on my driver's license online?
Answer: In most states, you cannot change your name on your driver's license online. You will need to visit your local driver's license office in person.
Question 7: What if I have more questions about changing my name on my driver's license?
Answer: If you have more questions about changing your name on your driver's license, you can contact your local driver's license office or visit the website of your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.
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These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about changing your name on your driver's license. If you have any other questions, be sure to contact your local driver's license office.
Now that you know how to change your name on your driver's license, here are a few tips to make the process go smoothly:
Tips
Here are a few tips to make the process of changing your name on your driver's license go smoothly:
Tip 1: Gather your documents in advance.
Before you go to the driver's license office, make sure you have all of the required documents. This will save you time and hassle at the office.
Tip 2: Arrive early.
Driver's license offices can be busy, so it's a good idea to arrive early. This will help you avoid long lines and wait times.
Tip 3: Be prepared to pay a fee.
There is a fee for changing your name on your driver's license. The fee varies from state to state, so be sure to check with your local driver's license office for the exact amount.
Tip 4: Bring your old driver's license.
You will need to surrender your old driver's license when you get your new one. Be sure to bring it with you to the driver's license office.
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By following these tips, you can make the process of changing your name on your driver's license quick and easy.
Now that you know how to change your name on your driver's license and have some tips to make the process go smoothly, you can be sure that your driver's license will always reflect your current name.
Conclusion
Changing your name on your driver's license is a relatively simple process, but it's important to follow the proper steps to ensure that your new license is issued correctly.
In this article, we've walked you through the steps involved in changing your name on your driver's license, from gathering the required documents to submitting your application and receiving your new license. We've also provided some tips to make the process go smoothly.
By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can be sure that your driver's license will always reflect your current name.
Closing Message:
If you have any questions about changing your name on your driver's license, be sure to contact your local driver's license office. They will be able to provide you with more information and assistance.