Florida Name Change Guidance

Congratulations on your marriage! Changing your name after your marriage ceremony is NOT automatic after your marriage ceremony. Check out our guide below for the steps required in Florida. 

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📝 Steps to Change Your Name After Marriage in Florida

1. Get Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate

• After your marriage, the county clerk files the marriage license and you’ll receive your marriage certificate.

• Order certified copies (not just photocopies) — most agencies require them as legal proof of your new name.

• You can often order them online, by mail, or in person through the local clerk’s office or Florida Department of Health’s Bureau of Vital Statistics. 

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2. **Update Your Name with the Social Security Administration (SSA)

• Visit your local SSA office or mail Form SS-5 to the SSA with:

          o Your certified marriage certificate

          o Proof of identity (e.g., current driver’s license or passport)

          o Your current Social Security card

• The SSA will issue a new Social Security card with your married name.

• Do this before going to the DMV because the FLHSMV electronically verifies your name with SSA. 

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3. **Update Your Florida Driver’s License / State ID

• After you receive your updated Social Security card, go in person to a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) office:

          o Bring your current driver’s license or state ID

          o Your certified marriage certificate

          o Updated Social Security card (or SSA receipt showing it’s being processed)

          o Proof of residential address (two documents like a utility bill, lease, etc.)

• Pay the applicable replacement fee for your license/ID. 

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4. Update Other Important Records

Once government IDs are updated, notify other institutions so your name is consistent everywhere:

• Voter registration

• Bank accounts

• Employer/payroll records

• Insurance policies (health, auto, etc.)

• Passport (if you have one)

• Title/vehicle registration

Your updated Social Security card and driver’s license usually serve as proof. 

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📌 Notes & Legal Considerations

• Marriage certificates in Florida do not show your new married name; they show the names at the time of marriage. You use the certificate as evidence to request the change with SSA and FLHSMV. 

• There is no requirement to file a court petition if you’re changing your name due to marriage — a court process is only necessary for name changes outside of marriage.