How to Change Your Name After Marriage in Alabama

The winning sequence in Alabama is: certified marriage certificate → Social Security (free, first) → wait 24–48 hours → Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) - Driver License Division → passport → notify everyone. Each step verifies against the one before it, so order matters.

Order 3–5 certified copies from the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), Center for Health Statistics. Photocopies aren't accepted.

Good to know for Alabama: Order online/by phone via VitalChek (1-888-279-9888), by mail to Center for Health Statistics, P.O. Box 5625, Montgomery, AL 36103-5625, or in person at any county health department. Search/certified copy fee is $15.00; additional copies same order $6.00 each; $15.00 expedite fee.

File the free SS-5 with Social Security first, wait 24–48 hours, then update your license at the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) - Driver License Division (typically about $36.25 (confirm with the agency)). Bring:

• 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)

Update your passport, then your Alabama voter registration (Must register or update voter registration (including name changes) no later than the 15th day before an election.), and finally your bank, employer, and insurers.