Texas Driver’s License Name Change Guide (2026 Step-by-Step Process with Fees)
Texas Driver’s License Name Change Guide (2026 Step-by-Step Process with Fees)
If you recently changed your name after marriage, divorce, or a court order, updating your Texas driver’s license should be one of your top priorities.
Your license must reflect your current legal name. This guide explains exactly how to change your name on a Texas driver’s license in 2026 — including required documents, fees, appointment process, REAL ID rules, and common mistakes to avoid.
Let’s walk through it step by step.
When Do You Need to Update Your Texas Driver’s License?
You must update your Texas driver’s license if:
You changed your last name after marriage
You returned to your maiden name after divorce
You legally changed your name through a court order
Your current license shows your old legal name
Texas law requires your driver record to match your official legal name.
Important: Update Social Security First
Before visiting the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), you should update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Why this matters:
Texas DPS verifies your name through the federal Social Security database.
If your SSA record still shows your old name, your driver’s license update may be delayed.
Tip: Wait at least 24–48 hours after SSA confirmation before visiting DPS.
Step-by-Step Texas Driver’s License Name Change Process (2026)
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
You must bring original documents or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted.
Required Documents:
Proof of Name Change (one of the following):
Certified marriage certificate
Certified divorce decree showing name restoration
Court-ordered name change document
Your current Texas driver’s license
Proof of Social Security number (if requested)
Proof of Texas residency (if updating address at same time)
Make sure documents clearly show your new legal name.
Step 2: Schedule an Appointment with Texas DPS
Name changes must be done in person.
Go to the Texas DPS website and schedule an appointment at a local Driver License Office.
Walk-ins are limited and often unavailable.
Book early — some locations fill up quickly.
Step 3: Visit the DPS Office
At your appointment:
Submit your documents
Complete a Driver License application form
Verify your information
Take a new photo
Provide signature and thumbprints
Your old license will be invalidated.
You may receive a temporary paper license until your new card arrives.
Step 4: Pay the Required Fee
As of 2026, Texas typically charges:
$11 for duplicate license with updated information
If your license is close to expiration, you may choose to renew instead:
Standard renewal fee: $33
Fees may change slightly, so always confirm on the official DPS website.
Payment methods accepted:
Credit/debit card
Cash (some locations)
Money order
Step 5: Receive Your New License
Processing time:
Usually 2–3 weeks by mail
Temporary paper license valid for 45 days
Make sure your mailing address is correct.
Do You Need to Update Your REAL ID?
If your current Texas driver’s license has the gold star (REAL ID compliant), your updated license will also be REAL ID compliant.
If you do not yet have a REAL ID, you may need to provide:
Proof of U.S. citizenship
Additional residency documents
Starting May 2025, REAL ID is required for domestic air travel and federal facility access.
What If You Recently Moved?
If you changed both your name and address:
You can update both at the same appointment.
Bring two proof-of-residency documents, such as:
Utility bill
Lease agreement
Bank statement
Insurance statement
Special Situations
Marriage Name Change
Most people update their last name after marriage.
In Texas, a certified marriage certificate is sufficient proof.
You do not need a separate court order if simply changing last name.
Divorce Name Restoration
If your divorce decree clearly states your maiden name restoration, that document is enough.
If it does not mention name restoration, you may need to file a court petition.
Court-Ordered Name Change
Bring the signed court order.
Make sure the judge’s signature and court seal are visible.
How Long Do You Have to Update Your License?
Texas law requires drivers to notify DPS of a name change within 30 days.
It is best to update as soon as possible to avoid issues.
Can You Change Your Name Online?
No.
Texas driver’s license name changes must be completed in person.
Online updates are allowed for address changes only.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many delays happen because of simple errors.
Avoid these:
Visiting DPS before updating Social Security
Bringing photocopies instead of certified originals
Booking wrong appointment type
Forgetting payment
Signing with old name
Double-check everything before your visit.
What About Vehicle Registration and Car Title?
After updating your license, you should also update:
Vehicle registration
Vehicle title
Auto insurance
Contact your local County Tax Assessor-Collector office for vehicle title updates.
Keeping all documents consistent prevents legal issues.
Do You Need to Update Insurance?
Yes.
Your auto insurance policy must reflect your legal name.
Contact your insurance company once your license is updated.
Texas Driver’s License Name Change Cost Summary (2026)
| Type of Update | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Duplicate license (name change) | $11 |
| Renewal with name update | $33 |
| Additional REAL ID documentation | No extra fee |
Always verify fees before appointment, as changes may occur.
Timeline Overview
Here is a realistic timeline:
Day 1: Update Social Security
Day 3–7: Schedule DPS appointment
Appointment Day: Submit documents & payment
2–3 weeks later: Receive new license
Total average time: 2–4 weeks
What If Your License Is Expired?
If your license is expired for more than 2 years:
You may need to:
Retake written test
Retake driving test
Check with DPS before appointment.
Is There a Penalty for Not Updating?
Driving with outdated name information can:
Cause problems during traffic stops
Create issues with airport security
Lead to insurance claim complications
It’s best to update promptly.
Quick Checklist Before Your Appointment
✔ Social Security updated
✔ Certified name change document
✔ Current driver’s license
✔ Appointment confirmed
✔ Payment ready
Final Thoughts
Updating your Texas driver’s license after a name change is straightforward if you prepare properly.
The key steps are:
Update Social Security first
Bring certified documents
Schedule DPS appointment
Pay the required fee
Taking care of this early ensures all your identification documents stay consistent and valid.
