Wisconsin DMV Name Change (Driver's License)

Before you visit the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles (WisDOT 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 Wisconsin SS-5 step.

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

• Certified copy of marriage certificate (proof of name change)
• Updated Social Security card / confirmation SSA processed the name change
• Current Wisconsin driver's license or state ID (to surrender)
• Completed form MV3001 (license) or MV3004 (ID card)
• Proof of residency document if required (e.g., utility bill, lease)

REAL ID note: Name changes cannot be done online or by mail in Wisconsin; an in-person visit to a DMV service center is always required, with proof of identity and proof of name change. You must first update your name with the Social Security Administration and wait about 48 hours before the DMV can verify it.

The Wisconsin fee to update your license is typically $14 for a duplicate driver license, $16 for a duplicate state ID card. This change generally must be done in person. You can confirm the current requirements on the official Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles (WisDOT DMV) page. To see how Wisconsin compares with every other state, use our name change fee table.

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