Virginia DMV Name Change (Driver's License)

Before you visit the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), 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 Virginia SS-5 step.

Bring the following to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV):

• Certified copy of marriage certificate (or divorce decree/court order) showing the name change
• Updated Social Security card / confirmation that SSA records reflect new name (required before DMV visit)
• Current Virginia driver's license or ID card to surrender
• Completed online DMV name-change transaction confirmation
• Proof of residency if REAL ID compliance is being updated

REAL ID note: You must first process your name change with the Social Security Administration before starting the DMV name change (allow the usual 24-48 hours for records to sync); bring certified proof of name change and current photo ID to the in-person visit.

The Virginia fee to update your license is typically about $20 (confirm with the agency). You can start the Virginia name change online, but you still have to visit a DMV customer service center to finish it, and your name has to be updated with Social Security first. You can confirm the current requirements on the official Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) page. To see how Virginia compares with every other state, use our name change fee table.

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