North Carolina
Name change
after marriage
How to change names after marriage, North Carolina
Congratulations! You’re married and have decided to take your spouse’s surname! The not-so-great news… it can take weeks to get all your accounts and records changed over to your new name yourself.Â
Our service saves the hassle of contacting each company to verify their process! Our ready-to-send forms, letters and emails means you save hours of tedious administration! Â
Even better – you only need your marriage certificate to get started! Simply attach it to our personalized notifications and send! You’ll still need to visit the DMV and most banks in person, but our instructions and hacks will save hours!
Both parties are usually required to attend any county’s Register of Deeds office. Check ahead as there may be booking or paperwork requirements. Applicants must also take:
- Proof of age (eg: government photo ID or birth certificate)
- Proof of SSN. If the applicant does not have an SSN, they must complete a notarized statement
- Payment for the fee. Varies by county, but typically $60
Wedding licenses are usually issued on the spot. They are valid immediately from when they are issued for a total time of 60 days.
Once the wedding has been conducted and the final license filed, allow a few days for the details to be recorded by the Register of Deeds before ordering the official marriage certificate.
Check the county website for the county where the marriage license was filed. Most have online ordering and may offer walk in or mail services.
Certificates usually cost $10 to $20 each, fees vary by county.
If you’re changing names, always start with the SSA. Visit https://www.ssa.gov/personal-record/change-name and answer some questions about yourself. Some counties may share details with the SSA so your wedding and identity can be verified online, saving you a trip into the SSA.
Where your name change cannot be processed entirely online you will be directed to visit an SSA location with certain proof documents to complete your name change.
You can instead visit an SSA location and file form SS-5, however you need to show full evidence of identity and citizenship documents.
Once your name is recorded, an updated card with the same number but new name will be mailed to you.Â
Allow 2 to 3 days for updated SSA records to be visible to NC DMV. Visit any state DMV office in person within 60 days and obtain a duplicate driver’s license. Take the following original documents:Â
- Original marriage certificate
- NC driver’s license or state ID card
- Notarized DL-101 (pick up from the DMV in person)
Updated licenses or state ID cards are mailed out.
Complete a Corrected or Substitute Title Application (MVR-5). Submit the form in person at a local license plate agency, or you may mail the form.
No matter how you apply, you will also need to provide:
- Your marriage certificate
- $21.50 registration name change fee
- Vehicle title, if available
Once your name is updated a new title and registration will be issued.
Where your passport was issued within the past 12 months AND you were also married in the past 12 months, get a free passport replacement by completing form DS-5504.
For all other valid passport holders, complete DS-82 and pay full renewal fees ($130 book. $30 card).
You may mail in the paper form provided in your Easy Name Change kit, or else start the form online, then print, sign and send.
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INFORMATION HUB
Marriage Name Change
All you need is your marriage certificate. Some places must be updated in person, some need you to send a request in writing. We explain what to send where.
If you have the legal right to permanently reside in the USA you can change names here too. There’s no special ‘registration’ of your new name, just start using it! Use our ready to send notifications to update your records.
You can take your spouse’s surname even if you were married overseas. Apply for your official foreign marriage certificate, then attach to our notifications and send.
There are different forms to use depending on when your passport was issued. Follow the links to download the form you need.
Make the SSA your first priority! Start the process online. You may be directed to complete the name change in person at an SSA location. Once your name change is confirmed send off all other notifications.
It’s not always as black and white as your surname or your spouse’s surname. You have a few more options. The same name change options are available to either spouse.
Even if you’re planning to change names, we recommend using your existing name and signature. While you can use your new name immediately, it’s best to keep your name and signature consistent with the wedding license application.
Religious vs government marriage certificate? You may need to order your official certificate from the county clerk as not all organizations accept a religious certificate.
It is possible to keep your maiden name as a middle name but you should first be aware of your state’s law. You may need to state your preferred name when filing for your wedding license.
Follow our three married name change tips for the fastest and smoothest name change possible! We provide the low down on checklists, proof documents and planning.
Want to do your own name change research and paperwork? Create your beautiful & personalized checklist with all the companies you may need to notify from our extensive database!
