How to Change Your Name After Marriage in Virginia (Step-by-Step Guide)

Your wedding day marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter—one filled with celebration, commitment, and for many couples, a new shared last name. If you’re planning to take your spouse’s surname (or hyphenate or combine your names), Virginia makes the name-change process refreshingly straightforward when you follow the right steps and gather the proper documents.

This guide is an overview of how to change your name after Marriage. Once your marriage certificate arrives, HitchSwitch can simplify the entire name-change process so you spend less time on paperwork and more time enjoying newlywed life.

Table of Contents

Marriage License & Marriage Certificates in Virginia

A Marriage License is the document you obtain from any city, town, or county Virginia Circuit Court Clerk’s Office before your ceremony. Think of it as a legal application granting permission to marry.

A Marriage Certificate is the official record proving that you are legally married. It’s typically mailed to you a couple of weeks after your ceremony and is the essential document required for all name-change updates across federal, state, and financial institutions.

How to Get Your Marriage License in Virginia

Your marriage license is issued by the Clerk of the Circuit Court, and Virginia does not require residency to obtain one. Couples may apply at any circuit court in the state.

To apply for a marriage license:

Both partners must appear in person at a Virginia Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.
Bring valid photo identification (driver’s license, passport, or state ID).
Verify all personal information that will appear on the license.
Fees are typically $30–$40.
Some counties, such as Fairfax County, allow you to complete the application online before appearing in person.

At this appointment, you will also notify the clerk if you plan to update your last name after marriage.

How to Get Your Marriage Certificate

After your ceremony, your officiant completes the marriage license and returns it to the Clerk’s Office for recording. Once processed, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate.

Many couples order 2–3 certified copies to streamline name-change updates.

Processing tip: Check your county clerk’s website for current turnaround times, as some offices process marriage certificates within a few days while others may take longer.

How to Change Your Name with Social Security (Virginia)

Your first legal update should always be with the Social Security Administration (SSA). This ensures federal databases match your new legal name before you update your driver’s license, passport, and financial records.

To update your Social Security card:

Complete Form SS-5
Gather required documents:
- Certified Marriage Certificate
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
- Submit your application:
Online, by mail, or in person at your local SSA office
Your new Social Security card should arrive within 2–3 weeks. Your number stays the same—only your name changes.

Pro tip: Let your employer or HR team know a name change is coming so they can coordinate payroll and benefits updates.

How to Change Your Name on Your Virginia Driver’s License or State ID

After the SSA updates your record, your next step is the Virginia DMV.

Where to update:

You must appear in person at a Virginia DMV customer service center or participating partner location. Start your update online to save time:

Bring the following:

Current driver’s license or state ID
Certified Marriage Certificate
Updated Social Security record
Valid Passport
Two proofs of Virginia residency

The DMV will take a new photo and issue a temporary license on the spot. Your new ID arrives in the mail in about two weeks.

How to Change Your Name on Your Passport After Marriage in Virginia

Passport updates follow federal rules nationwide. The form you use depends on how recently your passport was issued.

For a full guide, click here. Or simplify the process with the Passport Now App, which helps you identify the correct form, take compliant photos, and submit your renewal.

When changing your name on your U.S. passport, the form you use depends entirely on how recently your passport was issued. The U.S. Department of State provides three main passport forms for name changes, and choosing the correct one ensures your update is processed quickly and without delays. Below is a breakdown of which form applies to your situation—whether your passport was issued recently, over a decade ago, or needs a complete renewal.

1. Passport issued less than 1 year ago:

Use Form DS-5504
Free update
Mail-in only

2. Passport issued more than 1 year ago (but within 15 years):

Use Form DS-82
Mail-in renewal
Fee: $130 (book) / $30 (card)

3. Passport issued over 15 years ago, issued when under 16, or lost/stolen:

Use Form DS-11
Must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility

Passport Processing Times

Routine: 4–6 weeks
Expedited: 2–4 weeks (additional $60 fee)

Processing times begin once the State Department receives your application, not the day you mail it.

Don’t Forget Global Entry & TSA PreCheck If you’re enrolled in Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, you must also update your trusted traveler documents after your passport name change. Most updates are free unless your membership has expired.

Final Tips for a Smooth Virginia Name Change

After updating Social Security, DMV, and your passport, remember to update your name with:

Employer & payroll
Banks and credit cards
Insurance providers
Voter registration
Retirement accounts
Utilities & subscriptions

Helpful reminders:

Order extra certified marriage certificates.
Update records in this order: federal → state → financial → personal.
Always match your name exactly as it appears on your marriage certificate.

Once your certificate arrives, HitchSwitch can streamline the rest—from pre-filled forms to personalized checklists and support. Whether you prefer a DIY download or a concierge-style service, HitchSwitch makes your name change after marriage simple and stress-free.

✅ FAQs: Changing Your Name After Marriage in Virginia

1. What documents do I need to change my name after marriage in Virginia?

To change your name in Virginia, you’ll generally need:

A certified Marriage Certificate
A valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
Proof of your updated Social Security record
Additional supporting documents for specific agencies (e.g., proof of address for the DMV)

2. Do I have to update my Social Security card before going to the Virginia DMV?

Yes. The SSA must update your name first. The Virginia DMV verifies your name electronically with Social Security, so your DMV application may be delayed or rejected if your SSA record still shows your maiden name.

3. How long does it take to get a certified copy of my marriage certificate in Virginia?

Most Clerk of the Circuit Court offices process certificates within a few days to a few weeks, depending on your county. If you need copies quickly, check your local clerk’s website for current processing times or rush options.

4. How long does it take to update my Virginia driver’s license after marriage?

The DMV issues a temporary license immediately. Your new card typically arrives by mail within 10–14 business days.

5. Do I need a new passport photo when changing my name?

Yes. All passport name-change applications require a new compliant passport photo, regardless of which form you use.

6. Does my Virginia marriage certificate automatically change my name?

No. A marriage certificate gives you the legal right to change your name, but it does not update your records for you. You must notify each agency (SSA, DMV, passport, bank, employer, etc.) individually.

7. Can I hyphenate or combine last names in Virginia?

Yes. Virginia allows spouses to take a spouse’s surname, hyphenate, or combine surnames using the marriage certificate. More complex name changes may require a court order.