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Name change by state ยท Montana

How to change your name in Montana

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

DMV fee$10.30 for a replacement license ($36.05 for REAL ID)
DeadlineNo set deadline found, but update it before you travel or renew
WhereMontana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), 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 Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) checks your new name against Social Security's records, so wait a day or two after this step.

  3. Get a new Montana driver's license

    Montana doesn't use a paper form for this: the clerk enters your details at the counter.

    Bring:

    • Certified marriage certificate from the issuing government (church certificates and common-law affidavits not accepted)
    • Current license

    Good to know:

    • Wait at least 48 hours after your Social Security update.
    • Schedule an appointment at a driver license exam station.
    • Montana's mail-in replacement forms can't be used for a name change; the exam station gives you the application.

  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. It also writes your letters for banks and insurers. The checklist is free.

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Official sources

Last checked October 7, 2026. Rules and fees change; confirm on the official site before you go.