How to Change Your Name in Florida After Marriage

After the whirlwind of wedding planning, your next newlywed milestone might be changing your name. Whether you’re taking your spouse’s last name, hyphenating, or creating a dual surname, Florida has a clear process for making it official.

It can feel like a lot of paperwork, but with the right documents and a step-by-step plan, it’s very manageable. Below is everything you need to know to change your name in Florida after marriage. (Also see our guide: How to Change Your Name After Marriage.)

Marriage Certificates in Florida

Your marriage certificate is the foundation of your name change. You and your partner apply for a marriage license at your county Clerk of Court’s office. Both parties must appear in person, present a valid photo ID, and provide the required personal information.

Acceptable new-name formats in Florida typically include:

• The surname of either spouse
• Making your maiden name your middle name or adding your maiden name to your middle name (varies by county)
• Hyphenating both surnames
• Adopting a dual last name without a hyphen (e.g., “Maiden Married” or “Married Maiden”)

After the ceremony, your officiant returns the signed license to the Clerk of Court to be recorded. The clerk then mails your certified marriage certificate to you. In Florida, many marriage certificates list only your former names—this is normal. The certificate is still valid proof of your new name. You may use the original or request certified copies from the Clerk’s office.

Keep this certificate handy—you’ll need it at government agencies and financial institutions to update your records.

Step 1: Update Your Social Security Record

Your first official stop is the Social Security Administration (SSA). Most other agencies (including the Florida DMV) verify your name through SSA before issuing a new ID. Check out our blog on how to change your name on your Social Security card after marriage for more information.

What to do:

1. Complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) at SSA.gov.

2. Provide a certified copy or the original of your marriage certificate.

3. Show proof of identity (current driver’s license or U.S. passport).

Submit in person at your local SSA office, by mail, or (in some cases) online. There’s no fee, and new cards typically arrive within two to three weeks.

HitchSwitch can prep everything for your Social Security update with pre-filled forms and personalized guidance so you can make all updates correctly the first time.

Step 2: Update Your Florida Driver’s License or State ID

After SSA updates your record, visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) to update your driver’s license or state ID.

Bring:

• Completed Driver’s License or Identification Card Application (available online or at the office)

• Certified or Original marriage certificate

• Updated SSA record (your new Social Security card)

• Current driver’s license or ID

• Valid US Passport or Birth Certificate 

• Two proofs of Florida residency

• Payment for the standard replacement fee

You’ll have a new photo taken and may be asked for a thumbprint. Florida typically issues the updated license/ID the same day. Check out our blog on how to change your name on your REAL ID after marriage. 

Step 3: Update Your U.S. Passport

Passport updates follow federal rules and depend on your current passport’s age and status:

• Form DS-5504 – If your passport is less than 1 year old, the name change update is free. Submit your current passport, certified marriage certificate, and a new passport photo.

• Form DS-82 – If your passport was issued within the last 15 years, is in good condition, and you were 16+ when issued, renew by mail with this form. Include your current passport, marriage certificate, new photo, and renewal fee.

• Form DS-11 – If you don’t qualify for the above, apply in person. Bring proof of citizenship, valid photo ID, passport photo, your marriage certificate, and standard fees.

Check out our blog on how to change your name on your passport after marriage.

Final To-Dos (Banks, Benefits, and More)

Once you’ve updated Social Security, your Florida license/ID, and your passport, notify:

• Employer/payroll/HR (W-4, benefits, retirement)

• Banks and credit cards

• Insurance (health, auto, life)

• Voter registration and USPS mail forwarding

• Utilities, leases, mortgages, and subscriptions

• Frequent-flier and travel profiles

• Everything Else

Short on time? HitchSwitch offers packages ranging from DIY print-at-home to full concierge. You’ll get custom forms, step-by-step instructions, and even pre-stamped envelopes so you can update your name everywhere without headaches.