South Carolina DMV Name Change (Driver's License)

Before you visit the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV), 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 South Carolina SS-5 step.

Bring the following to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV):

• Certified marriage certificate (or divorce decree/family court order)
• Completed SCDMV Form 4057 (Application for Name and/or Address Change)
• Completed SCDMV Form 447-NC (Application for Beginner's Permit, Driver's License, or ID Card)
• Proof of Social Security Administration name update (must update with SSA at least 48 hours before visiting SCDMV)
• Current driver's license/ID and proof of residency (for REAL ID)

REAL ID note: Name changes cannot be done online or by mail; must be done in person at an SCDMV branch. Must wait at least 48 hours after updating name with SSA before visiting SCDMV. Only one name-change opportunity is allowed at marriage without a court order for further changes.

The South Carolina fee to update your license is typically $10 for a standard license reflecting the new name; $25 for a first REAL ID. This change generally must be done in person. You can confirm the current requirements on the official South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) page. To see how South Carolina compares with every other state, use our name change fee table.

Booking ahead can save you a wait at many South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) locations: South Carolina appointment options.