Name Change in Arkansas
Changing your name on your Arkansas license isn't automatic. After a marriage, divorce, or court-ordered name change, you'll update Social Security first, then your driver's license, vehicle title, and registration. The Arkansas steps below show exactly what to bring and in what order—then work through the list of everything else to update.
How to Change Your Name in Arkansas
Summary: How to Change Your Name in Arkansas
To make a name change on your driver's license/ID card, vehicle registration, and certificate of title, you'll need to provide proof of your identity and your name change. You'll also need to pay fees for updated documents, and change your name with the Social Security Administration.
If you've changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or any other reason, you will need to inform the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) and obtain updated documents.
You will need to apply for a replacement AR driver's license/ID card and certificate of title.
Change Your Name with the SSA
Before you change your name with the Arkansas DFA, it may be a good idea to first change your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA). The DFA may verify your identity with the SSA before they process your name change, so this first step may prevent delays.
To make a name change with the SSA, you'll need the following documents:
- A completed Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5).
- Proof of your U.S. citizenship (if required) OR lawful presence in the U.S. (including a print out of your I-94).
- Proof of your identity, such as your:
- Driver's license.
- ID card.
- Birth certificate.
- Proof of your name change, such as your:
- Divorce decree.
- Marriage certificate.
- Court documents.
Once the SSA has processed your request, you will receive your updated Social Security card in the mail within 14 business days.
AR Driver's License/ID Card Name Change
To change your name on your Arkansas driver's license or ID card, you will need to bring the following in person to your local AR DFA office:
- Your current AR driver's license/ID card.
- Proof of your name change, such as your:
- Marriage certificate.
- Court order.
- Divorce decree.
- Proof of your identity .
- Which identification documents are required depends on which type of license or ID you have. The DFA will walk you through which documents you will need by using the License or ID Pre-Registration portal.
- Payment for the fee:
- Driver's license: $10.
- Identification card: $5.
Vehicle Title & Registration Name Change
To change your name on your vehicle certificate of title and registration, you will likely need to visit your Arkansas DFA office with:
- Your current certificate of title and/or registration document.
- Proof of your name change (e.g. marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order).
- Proof of your identity (see the AR DFA website).
- Payment for applicable fees.
The AR Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) may require you to complete a title transfer in order to have your name changed on your title certificate.
You may also need to apply for duplicate copies of your registration and/or title. For more information, visit our following pages:
For more information about changing your name on your title certificate or registration, contact the Arkansas DFA directly.
Fees to Change Your Name in Arkansas
When you change your name, you may need to pay the following fees for replacement documents from the Arkansas DFA:
- Driver's license: $10.
- ID card: $5.
- Certificate of title: $10.
For additional fee information and accepted payment types, contact the AR DFA.
Change Your Arkansas Address
If you've recently changed your address in Arkansas, you can update your information with the DFA either in person, by email, or by mail. For more information, visit our Change of Address in Arkansas page.
Related DMV tasks
Changing your name touches more than your license. Here's what else to update—we've linked our full guides.
Don't forget these after your name change:
✓Social Security—update this FIRST at ssa.gov (Form SS-5, free) so your DMV records match.
✓U.S. passport—update with the U.S. State Department if you travel.
✓Car insurance & banks—update your policy, cards, and accounts.
✓Employer & IRS—update payroll and tax records with your new legal name.
