Tennessee Driver's License Name Change After Marriage

Before you visit the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security, Driver Services Division, you must update Social Security and then wait 24–48 hours for their systems to sync. Tennessee verifies your new name against SSA data in real time, so if you go too soon you'll be rejected. Start with the free Tennessee SS-5 step.

Bring the following to the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security, Driver Services Division:

• Certified copy of marriage certificate from Tennessee Vital Records or county clerk (original or certified copy only, no photocopies/faxes)
• Current Tennessee driver's license or ID
• Proof that Social Security Administration record has been updated with new name (recommended before DMV visit)
• Proof of Tennessee residency (utility bill, lease, etc.) if updating for REAL ID compliance
• Completed in-person application at a Driver Services Center (no separate form needed to bring, but bring proof of identity/citizenship if upgrading to REAL ID)

REAL ID note: Tennessee Driver Services requires an in-person visit to a Driver Services Center for any name change; documents must be originals or certified copies (no faxes/photocopies). Making an appointment is recommended.

The Tennessee fee to update your license is typically $8–$28 (varies; confirm with the agency). This change generally must be done in person. You can confirm the current requirements on the official Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security, Driver Services Division page.

Many Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security, Driver Services Division locations let you skip the line by booking ahead: book a Tennessee appointment.