Everything You Need to Know About Changing Your Name (for Marriage or Divorce)
Changing your name is a personal decision—whether you’re doing it to mark the beginning of a marriage or a new chapter after divorce. In Nevada, the process is relatively straightforward, but it does require attention to legal details and the right documentation. This guide covers everything you need to know about changing your name in Nevada for both marriage and divorce, with practical steps and answers to common questions.
Name Change After Marriage
Do I Have to Change My Name After Marriage in Nevada?
Of course not! Changing your name after marriage is optional. In Nevada, spouses are not legally required to take their partner’s last name. Many individuals choose to change their names for traditional, cultural, or symbolic reasons, while others may opt to retain their maiden names for professional identity, family legacy, or personal preference.
Some couples even choose to hyphenate or blend last names as a way of creating a shared identity. Nevada law allows flexibility.
How to Change Your Last Name After Getting Married in Nevada
If you decide to change your last name after marriage, the process typically starts after your wedding ceremony. Here are the steps:
- First, obtain a Certified Copy of Your Marriage Certificate from the county where the marriage took place (e.g., Washoe County).
- Then, update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) using proof of identity documents and a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
- Next, visit the Nevada DMV to update your driver’s license or state ID.
- After, notify Your Bank, Credit Card Companies, and Employer with the updated documents.
- Lastly, update other records, including voter registration, insurance, and medical providers.
How to Get a Certified Copy of Your Nevada Marriage Certificate
As mentioned previously, to begin the name change process, you’ll need a certified copy of your marriage certificate:
- In Washoe County, visit County Recorder’s Office or order your record online
- Certified copies generally cost $15.
- It’s smart to request multiple certified copies for use across different agencies.
What If I Want to Combine or Hyphenate Our Last Names?
In Nevada, you can combine, hyphenate, or even create a new last name after marriage. However, not all options are treated the same legally:
- Hyphenating last names (e.g., Smith-Jones) is usually accepted and can be done through the standard name change process.
- Blending or inventing a new surname (e.g., Smones) may require a separate legal name change petition.
Always check with the SSA and DMV first to confirm that your chosen format will be accepted.
Name Change After Divorce
Can I Restore My Maiden Name in the Divorce Decree?
You may. This is often the easiest time to legally change your name after divorce. In Nevada, you can request a return to your maiden or former legal name as part of the divorce proceedings. When the court finalizes the decree, it may include a statement authorizing the name change. This becomes your legal documentation for updating your name across agencies.
How to Change Your Name After Divorce in Nevada If It Wasn’t in the Decree?
If your divorce decree doesn’t include a name restoration clause, you can still change your name through a court order. Here’s how:
- Fill out a petition and other required forms with the Washoe County District Court.
- File the completed forms at your local district court and pay the filing free
- If required, publish a legal notice in your local paper.
- Attend a court hearing, as necessary.
- Receive a court order approving your new name.
Once approved, this court order becomes your official legal name change document. This document is then used to change your name at other agencies mentioned previously (SSA, DMV, bank, etc.)
Note, this process does not include changing your name on your birth certificate. That requires a separate action involving the Office of Vital Statistics in the county in which you were born.
Why Some Women (and Men) Choose to Keep Their Married Name After Divorce
Not everyone chooses to change their name after divorce. Some common reasons people keep their married name include maintaining consistency with children’s names, professional reputation or brand and other emotional or practical reasons.
Nevada allows you to make the choice that feels right for your circumstances.
How Long After Divorce Can You Change Your Name in Nevada?
There’s no deadline. Whether it’s one month or ten years after your divorce, you can:
- Use your divorce decree (if it includes the name change), or
- File a new name change petition in court
The main requirement is having official legal documentation to present to agencies.
Which Documents Need Updating After a Name Change?
Changing your name is quite the process. Once your name change is approved, you will have to ensure your name is fully changed and official across several entities. For example:
- Social Security Administration
- Nevada DMV
- U.S. Department of State for Passport purposes
- Financial accounts (banks, credit cards, loans)
- Health insurance and providers
- Employer/payroll systems
- Voter registration and legal documents
- Schools or child-related documents
It’s important to keep multiple certified copies of your decree or court order—you’ll need them.
Reno Family Law Attorneys
Whether you’re beginning a new chapter in marriage or after a divorce, changing your name is a meaningful step. A Nevada family law attorney can help you understand your options, ensure the paperwork is done right, and make the process as smooth as possible.
This article is intended for general informational use and should not be taken as legal advice. If you are facing a legal issue, please speak with a licensed attorney in Nevada to discuss the specifics of your situation.
