South Carolina Driver's License Name Change After Marriage

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. South Carolina verifies your new name against SSA data in real time, so if you go too soon you'll 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–$25 (varies; confirm with the agency). 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.

Many South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) locations let you skip the line by booking ahead: book a South Carolina appointment.