Georgia License Name Change

Changing your name on your Georgia driver’s license or ID card is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some planning and preparation. Whether you’ve recently gotten married, divorced, or simply want to change your name for personal reasons, the state of Georgia has specific procedures in place to ensure that your identification documents reflect your new name accurately and securely.

Reasons for a Name Change

There are several reasons why someone might need to change their name on their Georgia driver’s license or ID card. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Marriage: After getting married, many people choose to take their spouse’s last name or combine their last names.
• Divorce: Following a divorce, one spouse may choose to revert to their maiden name or a previous name.
• Court-Ordered Name Change: Sometimes, individuals undergo a legal name change through the court system, which can be due to personal preference, gender change, or other reasons.
• Error on Birth Certificate: In cases where there’s an error on the birth certificate, a name change might be necessary to correct this.

Required Documents

To change your name on your Georgia driver’s license or ID card, you’ll need to gather several important documents. These typically include:

1. Proof of Identity: This could be your current driver’s license, a valid U.S. passport, or a certified copy of your birth certificate.
2. Proof of Name Change: Depending on the reason for your name change, you might need a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing your new name.
3. Proof of Georgia Residency: You’ll need to provide two documents that prove you live in Georgia, such as utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements.
4. Social Security Card: If your name has changed, you’ll also need to update your Social Security card. The SSA (Social Security Administration) requires proof of your identity, citizenship (if not born in the U.S.), and your new name.

Steps to Change Your Name

1. Update Your Social Security Information: Before you can change your name on your driver’s license or ID, you need to update your information with the SSA. Download and fill out the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5), and take it, along with the required documents, to your local SSA office.

2. Gather Required Documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents to prove your identity, name change, and Georgia residency.

3. Visit a DDS Customer Service Center: Take your documents to any Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) customer service center. You cannot change your name online or by mail, so an in-person visit is required.

4. Fill Out the Application: You’ll need to complete an application for a new driver’s license or ID card, indicating your name change. DDS staff can guide you through this process.

5. Pay the Fee: There will be a fee for the new license or ID, which you can pay with cash, check, or credit card, depending on the location.

6. Get Your New License or ID: After submitting your application and paying the fee, you’ll receive a temporary permit. Your new driver’s license or ID will be mailed to you within a few days.

Important Considerations

• Name Change on Other Documents: Remember to update your name on other important documents and accounts, such as your passport, voter registration, bank accounts, and employer records.
• Vehicle Registration: If you own a vehicle, you’ll also need to update the registration to reflect your new name.
• Notification of Dependents: If you have dependents, such as children or spouses listed on insurance or other benefits, you may need to notify relevant parties of your name change.

Changing your name on your Georgia driver’s license or ID card involves several steps, but with the right preparation and documents, the process can be completed efficiently. Always ensure you have the most current information by checking with the Georgia Department of Driver Services or other relevant authorities, as procedures and requirements can change over time.