How to Change Your Name After Marriage in North Carolina (2025)

"How do I change my name after getting married in North Carolina?" If you're asking this question while sampling wedding cakes and touring venues across the Old North State, you're not alone. Between choosing flowers and planning your first dance, this crucial post-wedding task often gets overlooked until the last minute. Whether you're planning a rustic barn wedding in Asheville, an elegant ballroom celebration in Charlotte, or a beachfront ceremony in the Outer Banks, understanding the North Carolina name change process is one detail you'll want to figure out well before you say "I do."

The name change process in North Carolina doesn't have to be overwhelming, even though it involves multiple steps and government agencies. As a newly married person in NC, you have several options for your name change: taking your spouse's surname completely, hyphenating both last names, or even creating a space-separated double surname. Thousands of North Carolina couples navigate this process each year, and with this updated 2025 guide, you'll have everything you need to handle your post-wedding name change efficiently. From the Wake County courthouse to the Charlotte DMV, we'll help you navigate each office and form with confidence.

Let's be honest – changing your name isn't exactly as fun as your honeymoon planning (we wish it were!), but it doesn't have to be a headache either. We've broken down every single step, fee, and requirement for North Carolina newlyweds. And here's a pro tip right off the bat: while there are services out there that can help streamline this process for you (often charging between $30-100), you can absolutely handle this yourself with our step-by-step guide. Let's dive in!

First Things First: Your Marriage License and Certificate

Before you can even think about changing your name, you'll need your golden ticket: a certified marriage certificate. But let's back up a step – it all starts with your marriage license. Here's what you need to know about getting your license in North Carolina:

Getting Your Marriage License

Head to your local Register of Deeds office (yes, it has to be in person) with your future spouse. You'll need:

• A valid government-issued photo ID
• Your social security number (the actual card isn't necessary)
• $65 for the license fee (prices current for 2025)
• Proof of any previous marriage's end if applicable
• About 30 minutes of time (though we recommend allowing an hour)

After the Wedding: Your Marriage Certificate

Once you've said your "I dos," your officiant will submit the completed marriage license back to the Register of Deeds. Here's where many couples make their first mistake: not ordering enough certified copies. Trust us on this – get at least three certified copies right away. Yes, they cost extra (usually $10-15 each), but you'll thank yourself later when you don't have to keep requesting new ones for each organization.

The Big Three: Your Essential Name Change Documents

Now comes the strategic part. There's actually a specific order you need to follow when changing your name on your three most important documents: your Social Security card, passport, and driver's license. And yes, the order matters!

Step 1: Social Security Card Update

This is your mandatory first stop, and thankfully, it's free! Here's your game plan:

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

• Your certified marriage certificate
• Proof of identity (your current 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 you're waiting, you can actually start gathering documents for your next steps.

Step 2: Passport Considerations (Even If You Don't Travel!)

Here's something many guides won't tell you: updating your passport can actually make your DMV visit smoother, even if you don't plan to travel internationally. Why? Because it serves as an additional form of federal identification with your new name.

Your passport update path depends on your situation:

Just Married (Passport Less Than a Year Old):

• Use Form DS-5504
• No fee (yes, really!)
• Processing time: 4-6 weeks

Passport 1-15 Years Old:

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

New Passport or Expired Over 15 Years:

• Use Form DS-11
• In-person application required
• $130 plus $35 execution fee

Step 3: North Carolina Driver's License

Now for everyone's favorite government office (just kidding!) – the DMV. But we've got some good news: North Carolina has actually streamlined this process for 2025. Here's what you need:

• Form DL-101 (NC Name Change Affidavit)
• Your certified marriage certificate
• Your updated Social Security card
• Current NC driver's license
• $15 fee (payable by card or cash)

Beyond the Big Three: Your Complete Name Change Checklist

Once you've tackled the major documents, you've got a list of other updates to make. We've organized these by priority:

High Priority (Do These Within 30 Days):

• Employer and payroll
• Bank accounts and credit cards
• Insurance policies (health, car, life)
• Mortgage or lease
• Vehicle registration and insurance

Medium Priority (Within 60 Days):

• Investment accounts
• Medical providers
• Voter registration
• Store credit cards
• Loyalty programs
• TSA PreCheck or Global Entry

Don't Forget These Too:

• Email addresses
• Social media accounts
• Streaming services
• Gym memberships
• Library cards
• Professional licenses

Common Questions and Concerns

"Help! My wedding is in two weeks. Can I start this process now?" Unfortunately, no. Everything starts with that certified marriage certificate. But you can download and prepare all your forms now!

"What if I'm honeymooning internationally right after the wedding?" Book your travel under your maiden name. Changing travel documents too close to your departure date is risky and stressful.

"I'm moving to a different NC county right after the wedding. Where should I do my DMV update?" Visit the DMV in your new county of residence, but bring proof of your new address. You can find your local DMV office and even schedule appointments through the official NCDMV website.

Why Choose OurName for Your Name Change

While you can certainly handle your name change yourself using this guide, many North Carolina 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, thousands of North Carolina newlyweds successfully navigate this process every year. Take it one step at a time, keep your documents organized, and celebrate each completed task – you're building your new life together, paperwork and all!

This guide was updated for 2025. While we keep our information current, it's always good to verify specific fees with each agency, as they can change. Last updated: January 2025.