SashaName change by state · Rhode Island
How to change your name in Rhode Island
After a wedding or a divorce, here's the order that works in Rhode Island, what to bring, and what it costs.
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.
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 RI Division of Motor Vehicles checks your new name against Social Security's records, so wait a day or two after this step.
Get a new Rhode Island driver's license
The form is the LI-1 Application for License, ID Card and Permit. Sasha fills it in for you with your new name, so you just check it and sign at the office.
Bring:
- Government-issued marriage license
- Completed License/ID/Permit Application
- Current license
Good to know:
- Wait 24 hours after your Social Security update.
- AAA members can also do this at a AAA branch.
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.
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 Rhode Island DMV form. It also writes your letters for banks and insurers. The checklist is free.
Official sources
Last checked October 7, 2026. Rules and fees change; confirm on the official site before you go.