How to Change Your Driver's License in Rhode Island After Marriage

Just got married in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island, your certified marriage certificate is the legal document that lets you change your name — no court order required. Rhode Island also uses one state form for this — Application for License — which is included in your NÉE kit. 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 Rhode Island DMV, step by step

1. Find your nearest DMV at this link: bit.ly/rhodedmv
2. Complete the license application using your new name Select "Real ID" and "License" in Transaction Type section
3. Gather the documents listed below.
4. Visit your local DMV with your required documents and 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)
• Completed application
• Proof of Rhode Island residency (two documents showing your name + address)

You will need to provide two printed documents proving you live in Rhode Island. 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. - a full list of acceptable proof documents is included in your name change kit

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 Rhode Island DMV site).
• Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island — with step-by-step instructions. Start your Rhode Island 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.