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Name Change in Iowa

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Legally changed your name in Iowa—after marriage, divorce, or a court order? Update your driver's license, registration, and Social Security record. Here's exactly how, plus ask Sam.

Changing your name on your Iowa 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 Iowa steps below show exactly what to bring and in what order—then work through the list of everything else to update.

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How to Change Your Name in Iowa

Summary: How to Change Your Name in Iowa

If you've recently legally changed your name with the Social Security Administration, you'll then need to notify the Iowa DMV in person and have your driver’s license/ID card and car documents updated. You'll need to provide proof of the name change, listed below, as well as payment for the replacement documents.

For instructions on how to change your name on Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) records, continue reading this page.

Change Your Name with the SSA

When you change your name for any reason—such as marriage or divorce—you'll need to report the change to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and get a corrected Social Security card.

It's advisable to complete this step first before changing your name on your driver's license, as the IA DOT may verify your name change with the SSA. If your new name isn't reflected on SSA records, this may cause some problems and delays.

To change your name on your Social Security card, submit the following documents to the SSA either by mail or in person:

Proof of your identity (e.g. ID card, driver's license, passport).
Proof of your U.S. citizenship (if not already on file) OR lawful U.S. presence (e.g. citizenship certificate, working visa and I-94 print out, U.S. passport).
Proof of your name change (e.g. marriage certificate, court order, divorce decree).
Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5).

Your updated Social Security card will arrive in the mail in about 14 business days after processing.

For more information, including a complete list of documents required, visit the SSA website.

IA Driver's License/ID Card Name Change

To change your name on your Iowa driver's license or ID card, you must visit your local driver’s license issuance office in person. You will need to provide:

An original document proving your name change.
- Visit the Iowa DOT website to find what documents are accepted.
Payment for the $10 fee.

You will receive an updated IA driver's license or identification card showing your new name.

Car Registration and Title Name Change

When you visit the IA DOT office to update your driver's license, ask about changing your name on your car registration and title certificate also. You may be required to apply for duplicate copies of these documents.

For more information, visit our following pages:

Contact the Iowa DOT directly for specific instructions and required fees.

Fees to Change Your Name in Iowa

To change your name on your IA Department of Transportation (DOT) documents, you may need to pay the following fees:

Driver's license or ID card: $10.
Certificate of title: $35.

For more information about fees and accepted payment methods, contact your local Iowa DOT office directly.

Change Your Iowa Address

If you have changed your address in Iowa, you must notify the DOT within 30 days of your move. You can do this either in person, by mail, or online.

NOTE: If you want an updated IA driver's license showing your new address, you must change your address in person. You will not receive a replacement driver's license if you update your address by mail or online.

For more information about updating your address on your driver's license and car registration, visit our Change of Address in Iowa page.

Changing your name touches more than your license. Here's what else to update—we've linked our full guides.

Change of AddressMoved too? Update your address on your license, registration, and title.

Driver's License & IDRenew, replace, or update the details on your license or state ID.

REAL IDGetting a REAL ID? Make sure your name matches across every document.

Voter RegistrationRe-register or update your name on the voter rolls.

Find a DMV OfficeFind your nearest office, hours, and appointment options.

DMV FormsName-change and duplicate-license forms, all in one place.

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.

Name Change FAQs

How do I change the name on my Iowa driver's license?

Update Social Security first, then bring your certified name-change document and your current license to the Iowa DMV. The steps above lay out exactly what Iowa asks for, in order.

Do I have to change my name with Social Security before the DMV?

Start there. It's a federal update—Form SS-5 is free and your Social Security number never changes. The Iowa steps above show where it fits and what to bring next.

What documents do I need to change my name in Iowa?

A certified copy of whatever changed your name—marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order—plus your current license and proof of identity. The Iowa document list above is the one to work from.

How much does it cost to change your name in Iowa?

It depends on what gets reissued—your license or ID, and your vehicle title and registration. The Iowa steps above cover each one.

Do I need to update my car title and registration too?

Yes—your title and registration should match your legal name. The vehicle section above covers what Iowa requires.