Changing your name on your Colorado 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 Colorado steps below show exactly what to bring and in what order—then work through the list of everything else to update.
Whether you've just married, divorced, or legally changed your name, you need to report your new name to the Colorado Department of Revenue's Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Adult driver's license or ID card holders are required to renew their credentials when they change their name. Minors and CDL holders will be issued duplicate credentials.
This page includes information on how to change your name with the Social Security Administration, on your Colorado driver's license or ID, and on your vehicle title and registration.
Before you change your name with the CO DMV, you need to report the change to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
You can change your name with the SSA either in person or by mail. You cannot change your name online.
Once the SSA has processed your name change, your new Social Security card will be mailed to you. Your Social Security number (SSN) will not change.
To change your name with the SSA in person, visit your local Social Security Administration office with:
All documents must be originals or certified copies. Visit the website for a complete list of accepted documents. If you need any help changing your name with the SSA you can call (800) 772-1213.
Wait at least 24 hours after reporting your name change with the Social Security Administration before changing your name with the Colorado DMV.
When your change your name, you must renew CO driver's license or ID card if you are an adult. CDL holders and minors will be issued duplicate credentials instead of being required to renew their license or ID card.
To change your name with the CO DMV, visit your local Driver License office in person and bring:
Note: All documents must be originals or certified copies. The DMV provides complete lists of acceptable documents to prove your identity and residency.
You will receive your new CO driver's license or ID card in the mail within 30 days.
When you change your name, you'll need to update your vehicle title and registration in person at your local CO DMV office.
To change your name on your CO vehicle title, you'll need:
Requirements to change your name on your CO vehicle registration differ depending on your county. Call your local CO motor vehicle office for information on what documents and fees you'll need to change your name on your registration.
You will need to pay the following fees for updated CO DMV documents showing your new name.
Note: Some CO DMV driver's license offices may charge an additional service fee.
Many CO DMV driver's license offices only accept cash or checks. Call your local CO DMV office for acceptable forms of payment.
If your CO address has also changed, you will need to update your address information with the Colorado DMV. See our Changing Your Address in Colorado page for more information on changing your address on your CO driver's license, ID card, vehicle title, and registration.
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.
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