Many relate to feeling lost over DMV name changes
QGary, trying to navigate the DMV for those of us who are computer challenged is not easy. Can you help?
— Fran Miller and many others
ALet's start with this. The DMV has put together a series of its most-asked questions, and the answers to them. Many, but not all, relate to people changing their names as part of a significant life event, such as when getting married or divorced, among other changes. Here we go.
QI just got married and want to change my last name on my driver's license. How do I do that?
AFirst, change your name with the Social Security Administration. The DMV electronically verifies your name, birthdat, and Social Security number with the SSA.
After you've changed your name with the SSA, complete a driver's license or identification card application. You can start this process online. Then go to a DMV office to provide evidence of your name change and to pay the application fee for the new license.
QAre two middle names allowed on a Real ID driver's license and/or identification (DL/ID) card?
AYes. If the name on the document you use to verify your identity is different from the name you use on your Real ID DL/ID application, you may present proof of your name change.
If you want to use two middle names after marriage, use the instruction on the back of the marriage form to adopt any of the following as a middle name:
• Current last name of either spouse.
• Last name of either spouse given at birth.
• Hyphenated combination of the current middle name and the current last name of either spouse.
• Hyphenated combination of the current middle name and the last name given at birth of either spouse.
QI'll be moving into a new home soon. Do I need to visit a DMV office to change my address?
AYou can change your residence or mailing address online in the DMV's Change of Address System. However, you cannot use this online service if you:
• Do not already have a California driver's license or identification card.
• Do not have a Social Security number.
• Have an Army post office or fleet post office address.
• Have an address outside of the U.S.
QMy best friend is getting married out of state and my passport has expired. Can I use a Real ID instead of a passport to fly to the wedding?
AYes. A Real ID may be used to board domestic flights and to enter secure federal facilities.
For more information on these and other DMVrelated questions, go to the DMV website, www. dmv.ca.gov.