Do I change my name at the Nevada DMV or Social Security first?

Social Security first. Nevada's DMV verifies your name and SSN against SSA's records, so updating SSA before the DMV prevents your license or REAL ID from being rejected on a mismatch.

What documents does Nevada need to change my license name after marriage?

Current driver license or ID card (any state) See the full .gov-verified list below, each linked to its official Nevada page.

How much does a Nevada name change cost?

Non-commercial driver license name change: $8.50; ID card name change: $7.50; Commercial driver license name change: $12.50. The federal Social Security update is always free.

When was this Nevada guidance last checked?

2026-06-15. We checked every step against Nevada's official pages and show you the date so you know it's current — and we link every step to the real .gov page it came from.

Nevada · checked against the real .gov pages Last verified 2026-06-15

Name change after marriage in Nevada

To change your name after marriage in Nevada, update Social Security first, then your Nevada driver's license / REAL ID, then your passport. Do it in that order and you won't get turned away at the counter on a name mismatch. Below are Nevada's exact DMV steps and fees, each linked to the real .gov page it came from, then the federal steps that apply in every state.

Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

Nevada DMV name-change steps

Update your name with the Social Security Administration first
Nevada DMV requires you to change your name with the SSA before updating your license or ID. You must visit a Social Security office in person (or apply online if eligible), and allow at least 2 business days for SSA records to update before the DMV can verify the change. There is no SSA fee; SSA recommends waiting at least 30 days after the marriage date to request the new card.
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Visit a Nevada DMV office in person to update your driver license or ID
A name change cannot be done online or by mail. Bring your current license/ID, a certified marriage certificate filed with the county where the marriage occurred, your updated Social Security card, and a completed Application form (DMV 002). The DMV punches a hole in your old card and issues an interim document; your new card is mailed to you.
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Confirm REAL ID status for air travel
A REAL ID-compliant Nevada credential is marked by a gold Nevada outline with a star cutout. REAL ID is required to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings.
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What you need to bring

Current driver license or ID card (any state)
Certified marriage certificate filed with the county where the marriage occurred (a marriage license issued before the ceremony is NOT acceptable)
Updated Social Security card reflecting the new name
Completed Application form (DMV 002)

Nevada fees

Item	Cost	Source
Non-commercial driver license name change	$8.50	Nevada DMV
ID card name change	$7.50	Nevada DMV
Commercial driver license name change	$12.50	Nevada DMV

Watch out for these in Nevada

Must be done in person at a DMV office; cannot be completed online or by mail.

A marriage license is NOT accepted; you must present a certified marriage certificate filed with the county.

The DMV uses the exact married name stated on the certificate with no variations. If no new name appears on the certificate, you may choose among limited options (take spouse's last name, hyphenate, or move your maiden surname to the middle position).

All documents must be originals or certified copies.

Update SSA first and allow at least 2 business days before the DMV visit.

The federal steps (every state)

Your Nevada DMV step sits between Social Security and your passport. The three steps below are the same wherever you live.

1. Social Security (free)Do this first.2. REAL ID rulesName traceability + travel.3. PassportDS-5504 within 1 year.

Official Nevada & federal sources

Every step is backed by an official government page — confirm the current rules on the source before you act.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I change my license name online in Nevada, or must it be in person?: Must be done in person at a DMV office; cannot be completed online or by mail.
Do I change my name at the Nevada DMV or Social Security first?: Social Security first. Nevada's DMV verifies your name and SSN against SSA's records, so updating SSA before the DMV prevents your license or REAL ID from being rejected on a mismatch.
What documents does Nevada need to change my license name after marriage?: Current driver license or ID card (any state) See the full .gov-verified list below, each linked to its official Nevada page.
How much does a Nevada name change cost?: Non-commercial driver license name change: $8.50; ID card name change: $7.50; Commercial driver license name change: $12.50. The federal Social Security update is always free.
When was this Nevada guidance last checked?: 2026-06-15. We checked every step against Nevada's official pages and show you the date so you know it's current — and we link every step to the real .gov page it came from.

Not legal advice · Not a government service · Not affiliated with any government agency.