Alabama DMV Name Change (Driver's License)

Before you visit the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) - Driver License Division, you must update Social Security and then wait 24–48 hours for their systems to sync. Most DMVs check your new name against SSA data electronically, so if you go too soon you can be rejected. Start with the free Alabama SS-5 step.

Bring the following to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) - Driver License Division:

• Certified marriage certificate (original or certified copy)
• Updated Social Security card (proof SSA record already reflects new name; 24-hour waiting period after SSA visit)
• Current Alabama driver license or state ID
• Proof of residency document (for REAL ID compliance)
• Payment for duplicate license fee ($36.25)

REAL ID note: Must wait 24 hours after updating your name with the Social Security Administration before ALEA can process the name change on your license; bring proof of SSA update along with certified marriage certificate.

The Alabama fee to update your license is typically about $36.25 (confirm with the agency). This change generally must be done in person. You can confirm the current requirements on the official Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) - Driver License Division page. To see how Alabama compares with every other state, use our name change fee table.

Booking ahead can save you a wait at many Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) - Driver License Division locations: Alabama appointment options.