New York DMV Name Change (Driver's License)

Before you visit the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV), 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 York SS-5 step.

Bring the following to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV):

• Completed Application for Permit, Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card (Form MV-44)
• Current driver license, permit, or non-driver ID card
• Original or certified copy of U.S. marriage certificate (or divorce decree/court order if applicable)
• Updated Social Security card / SSN on file matching the new name
• 6 points of proof of identity and date of birth if no acceptable current photo document is available

REAL ID note: Standard-document name changes can sometimes be handled by mail if you already have an SSN on file, have updated it with the Social Security Administration, and need no other changes. Enhanced License/ID or REAL ID name changes require an in-person DMV office visit (a new photo must be taken). The name on the new DMV document must exactly match your Social Security card.

The New York fee to update your license is typically $12.50 for an amended driver license/learner permit; $5.00 for a non-driver ID card. New York does not take a license name change online. If you have a Standard license, permit or non-driver ID with your Social Security number already on file at the DMV, and you have already updated your name with Social Security, you can mail in form MV-44NC with copies of your documents and the fee. If you have a REAL ID, Enhanced or commercial license, you need to go to a DMV office. You can confirm the current requirements on the official New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) page. To see how New York compares with every other state, use our name change fee table.

Booking ahead can save you a wait at many New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) locations: New York appointment options.