How to Change Your Name After Marriage in New York

The winning sequence in New York is: certified marriage certificate → Social Security (free, first) → wait 24–48 hours → New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) → passport → notify everyone. Each step verifies against the one before it, so order matters.

Order 3–5 certified copies from the New York State Department of Health, Vital Records Certification Unit (Albany), for marriages outside NYC; NYC marriages are handled separately by the NYC Office of the City Clerk. Photocopies aren't accepted.

Good to know for New York: NYS DOH Vital Records (Albany) issues marriage certificates for marriages outside New York City ($30 per copy by mail; the issuing town or city clerk can also provide copies, often faster). Marriages performed in NYC are ordered from the NYC Office of the City Clerk instead.

File the free SS-5 with Social Security first, wait 24–48 hours, then update your license at the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) (typically $5–$12.50 (varies; confirm with the agency)). Bring:

• 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

Update your passport, then your New York voter registration (Register or update your registration (including a name change) at least 10 days before an election. Online updates go through the state Board of Elections portal and are processed by your county Board of Elections.), and finally your bank, employer, and insurers.