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Name change by state ยท Connecticut

How to change your name in Connecticut

After a wedding or a divorce, here's the order that works in Connecticut, what to bring, and what it costs.

DMV fee$30
DeadlineNo set deadline found, but update it before you travel or renew
WhereConnecticut DMV, in person

  1. Get certified copies

    Order certified copies of your marriage certificate (from the county that issued your license) or your divorce decree (from the court). Offices won't take photocopies. Most people need three or four.

    Divorce: check that your decree says you may go back to your former name. If it doesn't, ask the court about an order restoring it first.

  2. Update Social Security

    This comes first, and it's free. Fill in form SS-5 and bring it with your certified document to a Social Security office or mail it. Federal REAL ID rules mean the Connecticut DMV checks your new name against Social Security's records, so wait a day or two after this step.

  3. Get a new Connecticut driver's license

    The form is the E-78. Sasha fills it in for you with your new name, so you just check it and sign at the office.

    Bring:

    • Completed Change of Name Request (E-78)
    • Current license
    • Certified marriage license or civil union certificate (photocopies and religious certificates not accepted)

    Good to know:

    • By appointment only at DMV hub or express offices.
    • Wait up to 48 hours after your Social Security visit.
    • You get a temporary paper card; the permanent license comes by mail.

  4. Update your passport

    If your passport is less than a year old, use form DS-5504 (free). If it's older but you can renew by mail, use DS-82. Otherwise apply in person with DS-11.

  5. Everyone else

    Banks and credit cards, your employer and payroll, insurance, voter registration, your car title, doctors, utilities and online accounts. Most accept a short letter with a copy of your certificate or decree.

Let Sasha do the paperwork

Sasha builds this checklist for you, keeps track of what's done, and fills in your Social Security and passport forms and the Connecticut DMV form. It also writes your letters for banks and insurers. The checklist is free.

See how Sasha works

Official sources

Last checked September 30, 2026. Rules and fees change; confirm on the official site before you go.