New Jersey DMV Name Change (Driver's License)

Before you visit the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC), 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 New Jersey SS-5 step.

Bring the following to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC):

• Certified marriage certificate (or civil union certificate) showing the name change
• Current NJ driver's license/ID card
• "6 points" of identification documents (e.g., certified birth certificate, U.S. passport, Social Security card) per NJ MVC point system
• Proof of Social Security Administration name update recommended before visiting MVC
• Certified English translation if any document is in a foreign language

REAL ID note: A name change is processed as a walk-in at any MVC Licensing Center (no appointment needed); if pursuing REAL ID, the name on all supporting documents must match, so update Social Security records first (wait 24-48 hours for SSA sync) before visiting MVC.

The New Jersey fee to update your license is typically $11 (duplicate license fee). This change generally must be done in person. You can confirm the current requirements on the official New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC) page. To see how New Jersey compares with every other state, use our name change fee table.

Booking ahead can save you a wait at many New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC) locations: New Jersey appointment options.