Great Officiants

Fun and Romantic Weddings

Great Officiants

Fun and Romantic Weddings

How to change your name after the wedding

Changing your name after your wedding

Your After-Wedding Checklist

How to Change Your Name After Marriage in California

You’re married, your certified marriage certificate has arrived, and you’re ready to start using your married name. What comes next?

At Great Officiants, we use a simple reminder to help couples remember where to begin: “Social D.”

Start with Social Security, then update your California driver’s license or identification card through the DMV. Take it one step at a time.

This guide focuses on California residents. If you live elsewhere, follow your state or country’s identification requirements. Social Security’s federal process may still apply if you have a U.S. Social Security record.

Remember “Social D”

Social Security First.
DMV Second.

That’s Alan’s shortcut for remembering the order. Two letters, two stops, one less thing to remember!

Before You Start: Have Your Documents Ready

Have your certified marriage certificate and current identification ready, then check each agency’s document requirements for your situation.

Need to order your certificate? Read our guide to getting certified marriage certificate copies.

Choosing a married name and updating your records are separate steps. This page explains the agency-update process. For information about selecting a name on a California marriage license, visit our Name Equality Act guide.

If your desired name is not supported by your documents, ask the agency what additional evidence or legal process is needed before submitting your application.

Step 1: Social

Update Your Name with Social Security

Begin at the official Social Security name-change page. Its questions help determine whether you can complete the request online or need an appointment to finish it.

  1. Start your request through SSA. If you cannot use its online services, use the current Application for a Social Security Card, Form SS-5.
  2. Prepare evidence of your name change and identity. A marriage document supports the name change. Common identity documents include a current U.S. driver’s license, state-issued ID, or U.S. passport.
  3. Check any additional requirements. SSA may need proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful noncitizen status. Requirements depend on your circumstances.
  4. Schedule an appointment if instructed. Follow SSA’s directions for presenting documents and completing your request.

The replacement Social Security card is free. SSA requires original documents or copies certified by the agency holding the original record. Ordinary photocopies and notarized photocopies are not acceptable.

If you cannot provide a listed document, contact SSA about acceptable alternatives. Do not assume that every applicant needs the same paperwork.

Start Your SSA Name Change Official Form SS-5

SSA assistance: 800-772-1213

Step 2: D

Update Your California Driver’s License or ID

DMV checks your name against SSA’s records. Complete the Social Security update first and use matching information on your DMV application.

  1. Complete the online DL/ID application. Use the application linked from DMV’s official name-change instructions.
  2. Gather your proof documents. Bring your current license or ID and your marriage certificate. Previous name changes may require additional supporting documents.
  3. Check REAL ID requirements if applicable. If applying for REAL ID, review DMV’s identity, Social Security number, and two California residency proof requirements.
  4. Finish at a DMV field office. Bring your documents and payment. An appointment is recommended for planning your visit.

Use DMV’s official checklist for the documents required for your particular card and transaction.

DMV Name Change Instructions

How Much Does It Cost?

Service Listed Fee
Social Security replacement card for a name change Free
California Class C driver’s license information change $37
California regular ID card information change $40
California senior citizen ID card, age 62 or older No fee

Fees reviewed October 19, 2026. Renewals, other license classes, reduced-fee programs, and combined transactions may have different charges. The senior ID exemption applies to an ID card, not automatically to a driver’s license.

Check California DMV’s current fee schedule.

Then Work Through Your Other Accounts

Make a personal checklist of other records you want to update. Ask each organization which documents it requires. Your list might include:

  • Employer, payroll, and workplace benefits
  • Bank accounts, credit cards, and loans
  • Insurance policies and healthcare records
  • Passport and travel accounts
  • Voter registration
  • Vehicle registration and title
  • Professional licenses and memberships
  • Utilities and other household accounts

Keep a record of completed updates, confirmation numbers, and any documents still needed. Before booking travel, confirm the name requirements with your airline and passport authority.

One Wedding, One Checklist, One Step at a Time

Keep your paperwork together, use the official agency links, and remember Social D: Social Security first, DMV second.

For questions about an SSA or DMV application, contact that agency directly. For help with paperwork involving your Great Officiants wedding, contact our team.

Get Marriage Certificate Copies Contact Great Officiants

This page provides general information for California residents. SSA and DMV determine which documents they accept. Review their current instructions before applying. Great Officiants cannot provide individual legal advice about your name-change options.

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