Marriage Name Change in Texas

Agency: Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Deadline: Texas requires address changes within 30 days; name changes should be completed promptly.

To change the name on your Texas driver license, you apply for a replacement (duplicate) license at a DPS driver license office. DPS verifies your name with the Social Security Administration, so complete the SSA step first. You can start the application online but must visit an office to complete it.

Bring these documents:

• Updated Social Security card (reflecting your new name)
• Certified marriage certificate (original, raised seal)
• Current Texas driver license or ID card
• Proof of Texas residency (two documents, e.g., utility bill, lease)
• Proof of identity (if upgrading to REAL ID)

Open the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) →

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 Texas driver license — Texas 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.