Marriage Name Change in Rhode Island

Agency: Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Deadline: Update as soon as practical; RI DMV requires proof of your current legal name for any credential transaction.

To update your name on a Rhode Island license, ID, or permit, submit a name-change request with proof of your new legal name. The DMV's application form (LI-1) is used for these transactions, and a document showing the legal name change — such as a marriage certificate — is required.

Bring these documents:

• Updated Social Security card (reflecting your new name)
• Certified marriage certificate (proof of legal name change)
• Current Rhode Island driver license or ID card
• Completed DMV application (Form LI-1)
• Proof of Rhode Island residence address

Open the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) →

The one order that matters is Social Security first, then your driver license — state offices verify your new name against SSA records. Your U.S. passport can be updated whenever it suits you; it is not required before your license.

Update Social Security first, then your Rhode Island driver license — Rhode Island agencies verify your new name against Social Security records, so going the other way causes rejections and wasted trips. Your U.S. passport is a separate, independent update: you do not need a new passport to get your license, and you can renew it whenever it suits your travel plans. Banks, employer, insurance, and the rest come after your license.