Changing your legal name does not automatically update your IDs, bank accounts, or any other records. You will need to inform various agencies and organizations of your new name. You must:
You will also need to update your passport, green card, and other documents as needed. Depending on your situation, you may also need to inform certain people and other organizations. Examples include, but are not limited to:
Each institution will have their own policies for updating names and the proof you'll need to present. In most cases, submitting a name-changing court order or a certified copy of your marriage license will be enough. Specifics will depend on the organization's policies and the type of name change.
Links with instructions for updating common state and federal documents are listed below.
Note As of August 20, 2024, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) no longer accepts court orders that change the sex of an individual or "combined" orders that issue a name change and a gender marker change in the same document. This means you may not be able to change the gender marker on your driver's license or state ID.
The Texas DPS website explains what is required to update your last name on your Texas driver's license or ID card.
Rules from the Texas DPS regarding what they will accept when changing your last name.Information from the U.S. Social Security Administration on how to update your social security card with your new name.
