Kentucky DMV Name Change (Driver's License)

Before you visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Driver Licensing (DRIVE), 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 Kentucky SS-5 step.

Bring the following to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Driver Licensing (DRIVE):

• Certified Kentucky marriage certificate
• Social Security card updated with new name (SSA update must be done first, then wait 24-48 hours for KYTC to verify against SSA records)
• Current/expired Kentucky driver's license or ID card
• Proof of Kentucky residency (e.g., utility bill, especially if updating to REAL ID)
• Completed application (TC 94-192 renewal/replacement form, if applicable)

REAL ID note: If upgrading to or renewing a REAL ID-compliant credential at the same time, proof of Kentucky residency (e.g., utility bill) is also required in addition to the name-change documents.

The Kentucky fee to update your license is typically about $15 (confirm with the agency). This change generally must be done in person. You can confirm the current requirements on the official Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Driver Licensing (DRIVE) page. To see how Kentucky compares with every other state, use our name change fee table.

Booking ahead can save you a wait at many Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Driver Licensing (DRIVE) locations: Kentucky appointment options.