How to Change Your Name After Marriage in California (2025)

"What's the process for changing my name after getting married in California?" If you're asking this while touring vineyard venues in Napa Valley or planning a beachfront ceremony in Santa Monica, you're certainly not alone. Between selecting your perfect California wedding location and finalizing your guest list, this important administrative task often gets pushed to the back burner. Whether you're planning a ceremony in San Francisco, a desert wedding in Palm Springs, or a redwood forest celebration near Mendocino, understanding California's unique name change process is something you'll want to figure out well before your big day.

California's name change process has some distinct features that set it apart from other states. Most notably, California is one of the few states that allows you to specify your new name directly on your marriage license application. As a newly married Californian, you have several options: taking your spouse's surname, creating a hyphenated combination, or even combining portions of both surnames to create something entirely new. Each year, thousands of California couples navigate this process, and with our updated 2025 guide, you'll have everything needed to handle your post-wedding name change efficiently. From the Los Angeles County Clerk's office to the San Diego DMV, we'll guide you through each step with confidence.

Let's be honest – changing your name isn't nearly as exciting as planning your honeymoon to Big Sur or Lake Tahoe, but it doesn't have to be complicated. We've outlined every step, fee, and requirement for California newlyweds. And here's some good news: while there are services that can help with this process (typically charging $30-100), you can absolutely handle everything yourself with our comprehensive guide. Let's get started!

First Things First: Your Marriage License and Certificate

California's approach to marriage licenses and name changes is unique, so pay close attention to this section:

Getting Your Marriage License in California

Visit your local County Clerk's office with your future spouse. You'll need:

• Valid government-issued photo ID for both parties
• $90-110 for the license fee (varies by county, prices current for 2025)
• No blood tests required in California
• About 30-45 minutes to complete the application

After the Wedding: Your Marriage Certificate

After your ceremony, your officiant will submit the completed marriage license to the County Clerk's office where it was issued. Here's an important tip: request multiple certified copies of your marriage certificate right away. Each copy typically costs $15-25 in California, but having 3-4 copies on hand will save you time and hassle as you update your various accounts and identification documents.

The Big Three: Your Essential Name Change Documents

There's a specific order to follow when changing your name on your three most important documents: Social Security card, California driver's license, and passport. Following this sequence will make the process much smoother.

Step 1: Social Security Card Update

This is your mandatory first step, and it's free! Here's what to do:

Download and complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card). You'll need:

• Your certified marriage certificate with your new name selection
• Current identification (driver's license or passport)
• Proof of citizenship if applicable
• About 15 minutes to complete the form

Processing typically takes 10-14 business days. While waiting, you can begin gathering documents for your next steps.

Step 2: California Driver's License/Real ID

California requires you to visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person to update your name:

• Make an appointment online (highly recommended to avoid long waits)
• Bring your certified marriage certificate
• Bring your updated Social Security card
• Bring your current California driver's license
• Complete the DL 44 form (available at DMV)
• Pay the $30 replacement license fee
• Consider upgrading to a REAL ID if you don't already have one

Step 3: Passport Update

Updating your passport provides an additional federal ID with your new name. Your approach depends on your current passport status:

Recently Issued Passport (Less Than a Year Old):

• Use Form DS-5504
• No fee required
• Processing time: 4-6 weeks

Current Passport (1-15 Years Old):

• Use Form DS-82
• $130 for a passport book
• Expedited service available for an additional $60

New Passport or Expired Over 15 Years:

• Use Form DS-11
• Requires in-person application
• $130 plus $35 execution fee

Beyond the Big Three: Your Complete California Name Change Checklist

After updating your primary identification documents, you'll need to update numerous other accounts and records:

High Priority (Within 30 Days):

• Employer and payroll records
• Bank accounts and credit cards
• Insurance policies (health, auto, home)
• Mortgage or rental agreements
• Vehicle registration and title (separate from driver's license in CA)

Medium Priority (Within 60 Days):

• Investment and retirement accounts
• Medical providers and prescriptions
• California voter registration
• Utilities and service providers
• Professional licenses (especially important in California)
• TSA PreCheck or Global Entry

Don't Forget These Too:

• Email addresses and online accounts
• Social media profiles
• Streaming services
• Alumni associations
• Gym memberships
• Library cards

Special California Considerations

Name Change Options in California

California offers more flexibility than many states when it comes to name changes after marriage. Your options include:

• Taking your spouse's last name
• Adding your spouse's name to your current last name (with or without a hyphen)
• Creating a completely new last name by combining parts of both spouses' names
• Both spouses adopting a hyphenated or combined name

California Real ID Requirements

If you're also applying for a REAL ID during your name change, you'll need:

• Proof of identity (your marriage certificate and current license)
• Proof of Social Security number (your new card)
• Two different documents proving California residency

Common Questions from California Newlyweds

"What if I didn't specify my new name on the marriage license?" If you didn't indicate your new name on your California marriage license, you'll need to file a Petition for Change of Name with your local Superior Court, which involves additional fees and a court appearance.

"I'm planning an international honeymoon right after our California wedding. What should I do?" Book your travel under your maiden name. Attempting to update travel documents close to your departure date can be risky and stressful.

"We're moving to a different California county after the wedding. Where should I update my license?" You can visit any California DMV office regardless of which county you live in, but bring proof of your new address along with your other documentation. You can find your local California DMV office and even schedule appointments through the official California DMV website.

Why Choose OurName for Your Name Change

While you can certainly handle your name change yourself using this guide, many California newlyweds prefer to save time and reduce stress by using our OurName name change service. Here's why:

• Save Hours of Research: We've already done the hard work of researching every requirement and form.
• Personalized Document Package: Receive all your pre-filled forms based on your specific situation.
• Step-by-Step Guidance: Our simple checklist walks you through each step in the right order.
• Automatic Updates: We can notify many companies and organizations on your behalf.
• Affordable Peace of Mind: Starting at just $39, it's a small price for significant time savings.

Many of our customers tell us that using OurName was one of the best decisions they made during their wedding planning process. When you're juggling vendor meetings, honeymoon planning, and all the other details of starting your new life together, having one less thing to worry about is invaluable.

Get Started with OurName Today →

A Final Word of Encouragement

Remember that thousands of California couples successfully navigate this process every year. Take it one step at a time, keep your documents organized in a dedicated folder, and celebrate each completed task. Before you know it, you'll be fully settled into your new married name!

This guide was updated for 2025. While we strive to provide the most current information, it's always advisable to verify specific fees with each agency, as they may change. Last updated: January 2025.