How to Change Your Name in California After Marriage? Changing your name after marriage is exciting—but it does come with a checklist. In California, the process is straightforward if you follow the right steps in the right order. This guide walks you through each stage, from your marriage certificate to your Social Security card, California driver’s license or state ID. Click here to check out the 11-step checklist on the HitchSwitch blog. Read the 11-step checklist Step 1: Secure Your California Marriage Certificate Your certified marriage certificate is the legal document that authorizes your new name. It is a legal name change document. Before the wedding: Both partners must appear…