Changing Your Name

Notify the Social Security Administration

Begin by changing your name with the Social Security Administration. (The state explains why this is necessary.)

Notify the DMV

Once that's done, you must change your name on your driver's license or state ID at a Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) customer service center. Bring acceptable identification. Also be prepared to show acceptable proof of:

• Name change

• Name and date of birth

• Residency

• Legal presence

Of course, also be sure to bring either cash or a check to pay the $4 license fee, or the $6 state ID fee. And you'll need to surrender your current photo ID.

Update Your Registration and Title

Once you've changed the name on your license, the new information enters the DMV system. Thus, the next time you receive a registration or title, the correct information will be shown.

If you'd like a corrected title or registration before that, request an updated document at the service center. If you want the title changed, bring the current title. It costs $5 per vehicle to have the changes made.

You may also apply for an updated registration or title through the mail for free. Just send the current title with a note requesting the name change to:

• Wisconsin Department of Transportation

• P.O. Box 7949

• Madison, WI 53707-7949

You'll be issued a corrected title and registration after about eight weeks.