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Tag: Real ID

How To Change Your Name On A REAL ID After Marriage?
Congratulations, you’re married! The confetti has settled, the thank you notes are (almost) all sent, and you’re basking in that newlywed glow. But amidst the happiness, a little administrative task might be looming: changing your name. While the idea of sharing a surname with your beloved is romantic, the reality of actually making it happen can feel… well, less so. At HitchSwitch, we get it. You’re excited about this new chapter, not endless paperwork. That’s why we’re here to shed some light on the realities of changing your name, including the important step of obtaining a REAL ID, and how we can help you glide through the process with ease.

What’s the Difference Between the REAL ID, Standard ID, and the Enhanced ID?

While a standard ID will still allow you to drive, starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID or an Enhanced ID to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings. Think of it this way: both the REAL ID and the Enhanced ID meet these new federal requirements. However, the Enhanced ID goes a step further, offering the added convenience of land and sea border crossings into the US from Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries without a passport. So, while both offer more than a standard ID, the Enhanced ID provides that extra versatility for international travel by land and sea. Choose the ID that best suits your future travel plans! For a more detailed explanation, the NY DMV has some great resources.

The Romantic Ideal vs. The Paperwork Reality:

In movies and fairy tales, the name change is often a simple, almost magical transition. One day you’re Ms. Smith, the next you’re Mrs. Jones. Cue happy montage! The truth? It involves forms. Lots of forms. Different forms for different institutions. Trips to various offices. Waiting in lines. It can feel like a marathon when you’d rather be enjoying your honeymoon (or just a quiet evening on the couch!).

The Reality of the To-Do List (and the REAL ID Factor):

Where do you even begin?

The list can seem endless, and updating your identification to meet federal requirements adds another layer:
1. Social Security Administration: This is often the first crucial step. You’ll need to update your Social Security card, as this updated document is often required for obtaining a REAL ID. Click here to read our instructions for Social Security Name Change After Marriage.
2. Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the REAL ID: This is where the REAL ID comes into play. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of federal identification (like a passport) to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, and access military bases. Changing your name on your driver’s license will likely involve obtaining a REAL ID if you don’t already have one. This often requires specific original or certified documents to prove your identity, legal name change , and residency.
3. Passport: Planning any international travel? Your passport will need updating.
4. Banks and Credit Card Companies: Ensuring your financial accounts are in your new name is vital.
5. Utilities and Insurance Providers: Don’t forget the less glamorous but equally important updates.
6. Employer and HR: Your workplace needs to have your correct legal name for payroll and benefits.
7. Doctors, Dentists, and Pharmacies: For accurate medical records and prescriptions.
And the list goes on… Depending on your life, there could be memberships, subscriptions, and online accounts to update too.

The Reality of Time, Effort, and REAL ID Requirements:

This isn’t a weekend project. Each step can take time, from filling out applications correctly to waiting for processing. Obtaining a REAL ID requires an in-person visit to the DMV and bringing specific original documents (not copies) such as your marriage certificate, proof of identity in your former name, and proof of residency. Mistakes can lead to delays, adding even more frustration, especially with the looming REAL ID enforcement date.

The Reality of Potential Roadblocks (and REAL ID Scrutiny):

Sometimes, things aren’t straightforward. You might encounter specific requirements depending on your state or the institution you’re dealing with. The DMV, in particular, has strict requirements for REAL ID documentation. Ensuring you have the correct original documents, like your certified marriage certificate, is crucial for a smooth process. Without the proper paperwork, you could face delays in getting your REAL ID-compliant license in your new name.

HitchSwitch: Bridging the Gap Between Ideal and Reality (Including Your REAL ID Needs):

This is where HitchSwitch steps in. We understand the excitement of changing your name and the less-than-exciting reality of the process, including the critical need to obtain a REAL ID-compliant identification. That’s why we’ve created a streamlined service to handle the heavy lifting for you. Here’s how HitchSwitch makes the reality a whole lot easier, especially when it comes to your REAL ID:
1. Personalized Forms: We provide you with all the necessary forms, pre-filled with your information, specific to your state and situation, including guidance on the documents typically required for a REAL ID name change.
2. Step-by-Step Guidance: Our easy-to-follow checklists and instructions guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you don’t miss anything, and we highlight the specific documentation you’ll likely need for your REAL ID application.
3. Time Savings: We take the research and form-filling off your plate, freeing up your valuable time to focus on enjoying married life, and we help you understand what documents to gather before your DMV visit, saving you potential return trips.
4. Reduced Stress: Knowing you have a reliable partner in navigating this administrative task, including the often-stressful REAL ID process, can significantly reduce stress and overwhelm.
5. Expert Support: Our team is here to answer your questions and provide support along the way, including common questions and requirements related to REAL ID.
For an in-depth guide on how to change your name after marriage, please click here

Changing your name after marriage is a significant step, symbolizing the beautiful commitment you’ve made. Don’t let the complexities of paperwork, especially the requirements for a REAL ID, overshadow your joy. Let HitchSwitch handle the less glamorous but necessary administrative realities, so you can focus on the joy of your new life together and ensure you have the compliant identification you need for the future. Ready to say “I did it!” to your name change, and get on the path to your REAL ID, without the headache? Explore HitchSwitch today and let us simplify your happily ever after.
4 months ago
Important Information on the REAL ID 2025 Deadline
The REAL ID deadline is coming up real soon!

REAL ID has allowed the federal government to regulate security standards for issuing identification at the state level. The deadline for people in all 50 states to comply with these standards will take effect next year.

As the 2025 deadline for REAL ID compliance approaches, it is essential to understand the significance of this legislation and its implications for travelers.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the fundamentals of REAL ID, why it matters, the changes happening in 2025, what travelers need to know, and how to ensure compliance before the deadline.

Understanding REAL ID and Why It Matters

In the wake of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the United States government took significant steps to enhance security measures across various sectors, including identification protocols. Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act emerged as a pivotal response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations, aimed at bolstering the security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.

The REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for driver’s licenses and identification cards, ensuring consistency and reliability in identification verification processes nationwide. It’s not just about having a standard form of ID; it’s about ensuring that these IDs meet federal security benchmarks for accessing certain federal facilities, boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft, and entering nuclear power plants.

REAL ID isn’t just another bureaucratic hoop to jump through; it’s a crucial component of national security efforts. By implementing standardized security measures on a federal level, REAL ID enhances the integrity of identification documents, making it harder for counterfeiters and fraudsters to exploit vulnerabilities in the system.

The 2025 Deadline

Mark your calendars: May 7, 2025, is the enforcement date for REAL ID compliance. From this date onwards, federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), will only accept state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards that meet REAL ID standards for official purposes. This includes accessing federal facilities and TSA airport security checkpoints.

What You Need to Know

If you are wondering whether your current driver’s license or identification card is up to par, look for the REAL ID-compliant star marking. This emblem signifies that your ID meets federal security standards.

Additionally, some states offer Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs), which serve as acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards. However, it is important to note that not all EDLs feature the star marking, but they are still valid for REAL ID purposes.

How to Get a REAL ID

Preparing for the 2025 deadline involves ensuring that your identification card(s) meet the REAL ID requirements. To obtain a REAL ID, visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website for detailed instructions on the documentation needed.

Typically, you will need to provide proof of your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status. States may have additional requirements, so it is crucial to check their website for specific guidance before heading to the licensing agency.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

It is essential to heed the 2025 deadline for REAL ID compliance. After May 7, 2025, travelers who do not present a REAL ID-compliant license or acceptable alternative will be denied access through TSA airport security checkpoints. Avoid unnecessary hassles and delays by ensuring that your identification documents meet the necessary standards before the deadline.

Alternative Forms of Identification

While REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards are the preferred forms of identification for accessing federal facilities and TSA airport security checkpoints, there are alternative options available.

TSA lists a variety of other acceptable forms of identification on their website, meaning if you aren’t able to get your REAL ID before the 2025 deadline, you will still be able to board domestic commercial flights as long as you have one of their approved options.

Some commonly accepted identification options include a valid US passport or passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards such as Global Entry or NEXUS, a U.S. Department of Defense ID, a permanent resident card, and a foreign government-issued passport.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

Transitioning to REAL ID compliance doesn’t have to be daunting. Here are some tips to help ensure a seamless process:
1. Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to obtain your REAL ID. Begin gathering the necessary documentation and schedule an appointment with your state’s driver’s licensing agency well in advance of the deadline.
2. Double-Check Requirements: Before heading to the licensing agency, double-check the documentation requirements specific to your state. Additional documents may be needed beyond the basic requirements outlined by the federal government.
3. Be Prepared: Gather all required documents, such as proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency, before your appointment. This will help expedite the application process and reduce the likelihood of any delays.
4. Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about any updates or changes to REAL ID requirements leading up to the 2025 deadline. Check your state’s driver’s licensing agency website regularly for the latest information.
5. Plan Ahead for Travel: If you have upcoming travel plans, ensure that your identification documents meet REAL ID requirements well in advance of your departure date to avoid any last-minute complications.
More Information

For additional details and guidance specific to your state’s REAL ID requirements, visit the United States Homeland Security website. There is an interactive feature on the main REAL ID webpage that allows you to select your state. It will then transfer you to your state’s official licensing agency.
April 30, 2024
How To Change Your Name After Divorce? | 2025 Checklist and Guide
How To Change Your Name After Divorce? | 2025 Checklist and Guide

Why does a name matter so much? Why does a name carry such weight? It’s not just a string of letters; it’s a testament to who we are, a marker of our journey, and an essential part of our story. Changing your name after a divorce signifies a fresh chapter, a renewed beginning. Our guide is tailor-made to provide you with expert insights and a foolproof checklist, covering everything from securing your divorce decree to updating all your accounts. With HitchSwitch by your side, you’ll tackle how to change your name after divorce.

Remember, these steps are general, and the exact process might differ by state and/or county.

HitchSwitch Pro Tip: Before diving into the name change steps, let’s tackle your travel arrangements. If you’ve got international travel plans lined up under your former married name, it’s wise to hold off on submitting passport or license applications until after your trip. Your existing valid passport with your former name will be your ticket to smooth boarding. And for domestic flights booked under your old name, consider postponing updates to your driver’s license or passport until after your journey for hassle-free boarding. Meanwhile, you can start the process of updating your Social Security card without delay.

HitchSwitch’s Divorce Name Change Checklist

1. Obtain Your Divorce Decree

Your journey kicks off with snagging your Divorce Decree – that golden ticket often secured through a family court motion, either pre- or post-judgment. Typically, this involves enlisting the help of a divorce attorney to navigate the bureaucratic maze.

Your Divorce Decree or judgment should ideally include a clause allowing you to reclaim your maiden or birth name. Usually, no extra paperwork is needed besides your Divorce Decree affirming your name change. However, if the decree skips the name change memo, contact your attorney, or brace yourself for a court date to make it official.

Look for the part in your Divorce Decree that spells out your name restoration, or something to the effect of, “The petitioner is granted a restoration of the prior name Jane Doe Smith.”

The courtroom hustle might seem daunting, and having a legal eagle by your side could be a game-changer if you can swing it. If wallet woes stand in the way, tapping into your state’s bar association resources is a smart move. Take New Jersey, for instance – their NJSBA is a treasure trove of help for just such occasions.

Prior to starting the process, you will need a certified or your original divorce decree hand. If you lost your decree, or your dog ate it, The National Center for Health Statistics has your back with a handy state-by-state guide on snagging that certified copy of your divorce decree.

2. Updating Your Social Media Platforms

Kickstart your new name by changing your social media profiles. It’s a breeze and takes a few clicks on each platform. This is a great, easy first step in how to change your name after divorce. Here are the direct links:
- Facebook
- Instagram
- X
- TikTok
3. Updating Your Social Security Card

One of the big moves in your name change journey is getting your Social Security Card updated, forging a crucial link with various state and government entities. To dive into this task, you’ll need to understand how to change your name on your Social Security card after divorce. Start by filling out the official SS-5 Form. Check out our detailed guide for further information on how to change your name on your social security card here.

Grab these essentials:
- Your Divorce Decree, showing your connection to your maiden or birth name.
- Valid ID with your former name (like your passport or license).
- The completed application. Remember, originals only!
This update won’t cost you a dime. You can choose to do it in person or by mail at your local Social Security Administration office. You will receive your new SS card within 2 weeks.

HitchSwitch Pro Tip: To make things even smoother, if you opt to update your name in person, use the online Social Security Form to guide you through the card replacement process. Click here. Here is the cherry on top: once your SS card is updated, the IRS gets an automatic heads-up.

Next stop: updating your name on your passport (step 4) or license (step 5). If you popped into the SSA office in person, hold onto that receipt – it means your SS card is in the pipeline, and you’ll need to wait 48 business hours before hitting up the DMV for your new license. You will typically receive your new SS card within 2 weeks. For a hassle-free experience, use HitchSwitch.

4. Updating Your Passport

When it comes to traveling internationally, updating your passport is key. Learning how to change your name on your passport after divorce is vital for seamless trips. Check out our dedicated guide on how to change your name on your passport here.

Here are the three forms to consider for your passport update (costs vary):
- Ds-82 Form: For passports issued over 1 year.
- Ds-5504 Form: For passports issued within 1 year.
- Ds-11 Form: For first-time passport applicants.
For comprehensive details, head over to the State Department’s website here. Or use HitchSwitch.

To proceed, gather your essentials:
1. Your Divorce Decree.
2. A recent passport photo.
3. Your current passport.
4. Completed application.
5. Fee—check payable to the US Department of State.
HitchSwitch Pro Tip: Opt for tracked mail when sending your application. Anticipate receiving your new passport alongside other documents (in separate envelopes). Your old passport will return with a hole punch to mark it as invalid.

5. Updating Your Driver’s License (or state ID) and Vehicle Title/Registration

Driver’s License: Ensuring your driver’s license or state ID card is up to date is essential for various identification purposes.

Upgrade to a REAL ID or enhanced ID. Starting from May 2025, a REAL-ID or enhanced ID-compliant license will be mandatory for air travel. You can easily update your name and address (if needed) while upgrading to a REAL ID.

It should be noted that each state has its own set of rules, documentation requirements, and processes for how to change your name after divorce on your driver’s license. Hence, it is essential to check your local DMV website for details. The update must be completed in person, and you’ll typically need:
- Your updated Social Security card.
- Valid passport (in your new or former name).
- Current license or state ID.
- Orignal or certified Divorce Decree.
- Two proofs of address (in your new or former name).
- Costs vary by state.
HitchSwitch Pro Tip: Bring along your original documents, complete the necessary forms beforehand, and schedule an appointment to breeze through your DMV visit.

Title/Registration:
- Procedures vary by state. Some states let you update your license and title/registration simultaneously, while others require separate steps.
- Generally, you’ll need your original title, proof of insurance, a completed form (found on your state’s DMV website), an applicable fee, an updated license, and a Divorce Decree.
- If your vehicle is leased or financed, reach out to the lienholder (lender) for specific guidance. Costs vary by state.
Updating licenses and registrations can feel like navigating a maze, but with HitchSwitch’s guidance, you’ll conquer the roadblocks with ease.

6. Updating Your Voter Registration

Ensuring your voter registration reflects your new name is essential for participating in elections. This is another key step in how to change your name after divorce.
- DMV update: In most states, you can update your voter registration information when you change your driver’s license or ID card at the DMV.
- Local Voter Registration Office: If your state doesn’t offer this at the DMV, head to your local voter registration office for assistance. It’s a freebie.
- Online Name Change: Many states allow you to smoothly transition online through their voter registration website. No cost involved.
.

7. Updating your Address: Official Change of Address with USPS

To update your address with the United States Postal Service (USPS), click here.

Note that USPS doesn’t have a specific form for name changes, but if your address is changing, make sure to update it using the provided link. It’s a free service ensuring your mail stays on track during your name change journey!

8. Updating Your Professional License: Elevate Your Professional Identity

Updating Your Professional License: Elevate Your Professional Identity If you hold a professional license, this step is key to solidifying how to change your name after divorce in your career. Reach out to your state board to kickstart the process. You’ll typically need an updated license and your Divorce Decree. The update is generally free and can often be done online.

9. Updating Your Financial Accounts & Insurance

Take charge of your identity by reaching out to each issuer to update your name on credit cards, bank accounts, life insurance, other insurance policies, investment accounts, and more. The majority of updates can be completed online or in person. This crucial step ensures your financial stability and accurate records after you’ve learned how to change your name after divorce on your primary IDs.

10. Updating Your Personal Accounts

Ensure your name change is consistent across all aspects of your life, including streaming services, online shopping platforms, rewards programs, and ride-sharing apps. These updates are typically free and can be completed online.

HitchSwitch offers comprehensive guidance for everything you need to know about how to change your name after divorce across all these personal accounts. With step-by-step instructions, we make the process efficient and hassle-free. Congratulations on your new beginning, and best of luck on your name change journey!
April 15, 2024
Procedures of Real ID

If you have not yet heard from your local news channel or read about it somewhere on social media, you now officially have one year to obtain a Real ID from your home state. If this is your first time hearing of Real ID and you have no idea what we’re talking about, don’t panic.

To put it as plainly as possible, a Real ID is your driver’s license or identification card with one little tweak: a star in the top right. It’s the federal government’s way of verifying that you are you.

Before we dive into what Real ID is and how it works, let’s brush up on our history, shall we?

The Real ID act dates back to 2005 and was implemented by President George Bush following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The idea was to alleviate fraud, protect people’s real identity, and increase national security. By February 2017, 25 states and D.C. adhered to the Real ID procedure, and the government granted the extensions of the remaining states to change their I.D. practices.

Alaska DMV

By October 2020, all states must be Real ID compliant. When applying; you must provide your full legal name, SSN, birth certificate, and documents proving your residency ( bills, bank statements, etc.). So yes, it will be a little more complicated than just renewing your driver’s license. For this particular method, more documents are needed to verify your identity.

The Real ID allows you to board commercial flights and enter federal buildings. According to the Department of Homeland Security website, if an air traveler does not possess a Real ID by October 2020, they will need another form of identification, like a passport.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. Is it mandatory? Personally, if I’m going to waste hours of my day on something, it sure as heck won’t be the DMV. To answer your question, no, it is not mandatory. The picture below will give you a better idea on whether you should apply for a Real ID or not.

Of course, any ID you have on hand will do, but if you’re a constant traveler, then Real ID is recommended. According to the DMV, if you choose to stick with your current identification, the phrase “Federal Limits Apply” will be written on your card. That way, if you are traveling within the U.S., that card will hold no use and cannot be considered a legitimate I.D. by the federal government. In other words, the TSA will be trained to not accept any other form of ID, and complications will arise, which will lead to delayed flights and holding.

California DMV

If you’re wondering what the difference is between your current I.D. and Real ID, it’s the little star that will be printed out on your card. According to Real ID expert Alexis Campbell, all the star does is “verify that this person is who they say there are.” Keep in mind that your state government is responsible for your old forms of I.D. Think of the star as a federally approved stamp.

What else makes this procedure different? Public informant Charlie Moore states that “the real I.D. compliant credentials don’t ever require fingerprinting,” while other I.D.s do. When the Real ID Act goes into effect in October 2020, the need for fingerprints will be gone completely.

If you have any questions that have not been answered in this article, please visit your local DMV website to find out what your state requires for this procedure.

September 11, 2019