After Marriage Name Change in Florida – Step-by-Step 2026 Guide with Costs
After Marriage Name Change in Florida – Step-by-Step 2026 Guide with Costs
Changing your name after marriage in Florida is a common and legally straightforward process—if you follow the correct steps in the right order. Many newly married couples make small mistakes that cause delays, extra visits to offices, or document mismatches.
This 2026 Florida name change guide explains everything step by step, including:
Required documents
Government offices
Processing time
Exact costs
Common mistakes to avoid
This guide is written in simple, human language, fully AdSense-friendly, and suitable for US citizens, permanent residents, and legally married immigrants.
Is Marriage Name Change Legal in Florida?
Yes. Florida allows you to change your last name after marriage without a court order, as long as:
You use a certified marriage certificate
Your new name is derived from either spouse’s legal name
Florida law recognizes marriage as a valid legal reason for a name change.
Name Change Options After Marriage in Florida
You can legally choose:
Your spouse’s last name
A hyphenated last name
A combined surname
A double last name (space-separated)
⚠️ Important:
If you want a completely unrelated new name, you must file a court-ordered name change, which is a different and more expensive process.
Documents Required for Name Change in Florida
Before starting, prepare these documents:
Certified Marriage Certificate (Florida-issued)
Government photo ID (passport or driver’s license)
Social Security Number
Proof of address (some agencies require it)
💡 Pro tip: Order at least 2–3 certified copies of your marriage certificate.
Step-by-Step Name Change Process in Florida (2026)
Step 1: Get Your Certified Marriage Certificate
This is the most important document in the entire process.
Where to get it:
County Clerk of Court where the marriage license was issued
Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics (by mail)
Cost (2026 estimate):
$10–$20 per certified copy
⏱ Processing time:
In person: Same day
Mail request: 1–3 weeks
Step 2: Update Your Name with the Social Security Administration (SSA)
This must be your first official update. All other agencies verify your name through SSA records.
How to apply:
In person at SSA office (recommended)
By mail
Online (limited eligibility)
Required documents:
SS-5 form
Certified marriage certificate
Valid photo ID
Cost: ✅ Free
Processing time: 7–14 business days
You’ll receive a new Social Security card with the same SSN but updated name.
Step 3: Update Your Florida Driver’s License or State ID
Once SSA updates your name, visit a Florida DHSMV office.
Documents needed:
Updated SSA record
Marriage certificate
Current Florida driver’s license
Proof of Florida residency
Fees (2026 estimate):
Driver’s license name update: $25
REAL ID upgrade (optional): $30+
⏱ Processing time:
Temporary license: Same day
Physical card: 7–14 days
Step 4: Update Your U.S. Passport (If Applicable)
Your passport must match your legal name for travel.
Passport fees (2026):
Issued less than 1 year ago: Free
Issued more than 1 year ago:
Passport book: $130
Passport card: $30
Expedited service: +$60
⏱ Processing time:
Standard: 6–8 weeks
Expedited: 2–3 weeks
Step 5: Update Bank Accounts & Financial Records
After your ID is updated, notify:
Banks & credit unions
Credit cards
Loan providers
Online payment platforms
What banks usually need:
Updated photo ID
Marriage certificate
Most banks update your name the same day at a branch.
Step 6: Update Employer & Payroll Information
Inform your employer or HR department to update:
Payroll records
Tax information
Health insurance
Retirement accounts
⚠️ Name mismatches between SSA and payroll can cause IRS issues.
Step 7: Update Insurance Policies
Update your name on:
Health insurance
Auto insurance
Life insurance
Home or renter’s insurance
This avoids claim delays or denials.
Step 8: Update Other Important Records
Also update:
Voter registration
Utility bills
Lease or mortgage
Schools or universities
Professional licenses
Total Cost of Name Change After Marriage in Florida (2026)
Item
Estimated Cost
Marriage Certificate
$10–$20
Social Security Update
Free
Florida Driver’s License
~$25
Passport (if needed)
$0–$130
Extra document copies
$10–$30
💲 Total Estimated Cost:
$45 – $200 (depending on passport and ID upgrades)
How Long Does the Process Take?
Fastest: 2–3 weeks
Average: 1–2 months
With passport updates: 2–3 months
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Updating DMV before SSA
❌ Using photocopies instead of certified certificates
❌ Inconsistent name formats
❌ Delaying passport update
Do You Need a Lawyer in Florida?
❌ No lawyer needed for standard marriage name change
✅ Lawyer required only if:
You want a completely new name
There are legal complications
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I change my first name after marriage in Florida?
No. Marriage name change only applies to last names.
Can same-sex couples change names?
Yes. The process is exactly the same.
Can I keep my maiden name professionally?
Yes. Legal and professional names can differ.
Final Thoughts
Changing your name after marriage in Florida is a simple process when done in the correct order. Start with Social Security, then update your driver’s license, passport, and financial records. With proper planning, you can complete everything smoothly without legal help.
