Marriage Name Change in Delaware

Agency: Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Deadline: Within 30 days after legally changing your name, per Delaware DMV's published guidance.

Delaware law requires you to visit a DMV office in person within 30 days of legally changing your name to update your driver license or ID card. Complete your Social Security update first, since DMV verifies name changes against SSA records.

Bring these documents:

• Updated Social Security card (reflecting your new name)
• Certified marriage certificate (original)
• Current Delaware driver license or ID card
• Proof of Delaware residency, if required

Open the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) →

The one order that matters is Social Security first, then your driver license — state offices verify your new name against SSA records. Your U.S. passport can be updated whenever it suits you; it is not required before your license.

Update Social Security first, then your Delaware driver license — Delaware agencies verify your new name against Social Security records, so going the other way causes rejections and wasted trips. Your U.S. passport is a separate, independent update: you do not need a new passport to get your license, and you can renew it whenever it suits your travel plans. Banks, employer, insurance, and the rest come after your license.