Georgia DMV Name Change (Driver's License)

Before you visit the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS), 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 Georgia SS-5 step.

Bring the following to the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS):

• Certified marriage certificate (name-change document)
• Current Georgia driver's license or ID card
• Updated Social Security card showing new name (update SSA first, then wait 24-48 hours before visiting DDS)
• Two proofs of Georgia residency (for REAL ID compliance)
• For hyphenated surnames: certified copy of the marriage license application showing the hyphenated name selection

REAL ID note: Name changes must be completed in person at a DDS Customer Service Center within 60 days of the name change; bring proof of Georgia residency documents consistent with REAL ID verification requirements.

The Georgia fee to update your license is typically free (confirm with the agency). This change generally must be done in person. You can confirm the current requirements on the official Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) page. To see how Georgia compares with every other state, use our name change fee table.

Mind the clock: Georgia asks you to update your license within 60 days of your legal name change, so don't park this step for later. Source: Georgia DDS: license FAQs.

Booking ahead can save you a wait at many Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) locations: Georgia appointment options.