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Name Change, Made Simple

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Driver's License, Kentucky, Name Change
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How to Change Your Driver's License in Kentucky After Marriage

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Just got married in Kentucky and taking your spouse's last name? Updating your driver's license at the DMV is one of the first things to check off. In Kentucky, your certified marriage certificate is the legal document that lets you change your name — no court order required. Here's exactly how to do it.

Before you go: update your Social Security card first

Wait until your new Social Security card arrives before you go — the DMV needs it and cross-checks your SSA record.

How to change your name at the Kentucky DMV, step by step

  1. Find your nearest DMV and make an appointment at this link: bit.ly/kydmvappt You can also walk in if you prefer to live life on the edge
  2. Gather the documents listed below.
  3. Visit your local DMV with your required documents & pay the license fee

What to bring

  • Current driver's license
  • U.S. passport or birth certificate
  • Your new Social Security card
  • Certified copy of your marriage certificate (or divorce decree)
  • Proof of Kentucky residency (two documents showing your name + address)

You will need to provide two printed documents proving you live in Kentucky. The proof documents must include your name and address (PO Boxes don't count). Proof examples: utility bill, credit card statements, paycheck, apartment lease, etc. - use this link to get a personalized document checklist: bit.ly/kydocs

REAL ID

REAL IDs are required for air travel as of May 2025, the below instructions reflect the required steps to apply for a REAL ID

Good to know

  • A license fee is collected at your appointment (verify the current amount on the official Kentucky DMV site).
  • You can update your vehicle registration during the same visit.
  • Kentucky also allows you to register to vote while at the DMV, so we recommend knocking that out while you're there too.

Skip the guesswork

Figuring out which DMV office, which documents, and what order to do everything in is the tedious part. The NÉE Luxe Name Change Kit mails you every form you need — pre-filled and personalized for Kentucky — with step-by-step instructions. Start your Kentucky name change the easy way →

Prefer instant access? The NÉE Digital Name Change Kit gives you personalized, state-specific instructions without waiting for mail delivery.