Changing Your Name in North Carolina

When to Notify the DMV

Regardless if you change your name due to marriage, divorce, adoption, or even artistic whimsy, you will need to alert the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 60 days.

Changing Your Name on a Driver's License

Before visiting a DMV office you will need to obtain a new Social Security card reflecting your updated name.

For details on how to change your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA), visit its website. Give the agency at least 48 hours to process your request.

Once you have your revised Social Security card bring it along with, depending on your situation, a marriage certificate, a divorce decree, or an official court document. Cost: $10.

Changing Your Name on a Registration

Follow the exact procedures as changing your name on your license. The lone difference is that a duplicate registration certificate costs $15.

Changing Your Name on a Title

In DMV-speak, this is known as a title correction. To apply, complete an appropriately named Corrected or Substitute Title Application. Drop this off at your local DMV office along with, depending on your story, a marriage certificate, a divorce decree, or an official court document. You will also need to provide the old title, an odometer reading and proof of insurance. Cost:$15.

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