Tennessee DMV Name Change (Driver's License)

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. Most DMVs check your new name against SSA data electronically, so if you go too soon you can 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.

Tennessee fee: Duplicate license fee of approximately $8-$16 (varies by license type/duplicate history); temporary license around $28. 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. To see how Tennessee compares with every other state, use our name change fee table.

Booking ahead can save you a wait at many Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security, Driver Services Division locations: Tennessee appointment options.