How do I change my name after marriage in Alameda County, CA?

Order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the Alameda County Clerk, then update your Social Security record, your California DMV driver's license, and your passport — in that order.

How much does a certified copy cost in Alameda County?

The Alameda County Clerk charges $21.00 for certified copies. Order at least three so each agency can keep one.

Where is the Alameda County Clerk's office?

Phone: (510) 272-6362. Confirm current hours before visiting.

Do I need to go to court to change my name in Alameda County?

No for a marriage or divorce name change — your certificate or decree is your legal document. A court-order name change requires filing a petition with the District Clerk and attending a hearing.

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How to Change Your Name in Alameda County, California

Changing your name in Alameda County (county seat: Oakland) means working through several offices in a specific order. This page lays out the exact steps, offices, and fees for Alameda County after marriage, divorce, or a court order.

Step 1 — Get your certified copies

Every agency needs to see an original certified document. For a marriage name change, order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the Alameda County Clerk. For divorce or a court order, you'll get certified copies from the District Clerk (below).

Alameda County Clerk

Phone: (510) 272-6362

Certified copy fee: $21.00

auditor.alamedacountyca.gov

Alameda County Superior Court

1225 Fallon St, Oakland CA 94612

Phone: (510) 891-6000 · Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Certified copy fee: $25 per certified copy

www.alameda.courts.ca.gov

Step 2 — Update Social Security

Update your Social Security record first — it must come before your driver's license. It's free, but bring your certified document and a current photo ID.

Local Social Security office

Oakland

Step 3 — Update your California DMV license

Once your Social Security record is updated, visit the California DMV to reissue your driver's license or state ID with your new name.

California DMV office

Oakland

Certified copy fee: $36 (DL renewal/name change)

Step 4 — Update your passport

Submit the correct passport form with a certified copy of your name-change document. Passport services are available in San Francisco.

Fees at a glance

Item	Cost
Certified copies (Alameda County)	$21.00
Social Security card update	Free
Driver's license reissue	$36 (DL renewal/name change)
U.S. passport update	$0–$130 (depends on timing)

Local note: Main: 1106 Madison St Oakland CA 94607. AB 64 increased fee from $19 to $21 effective Jan 1 2026. One of higher-fee counties.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I change my name after marriage in Alameda County, CA?: Order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the Alameda County Clerk, then update your Social Security record, your California DMV driver's license, and your passport — in that order.
How much does a certified copy cost in Alameda County?: The Alameda County Clerk charges $21.00 for certified copies. Order at least three so each agency can keep one.
Where is the Alameda County Clerk's office?: Phone: (510) 272-6362. Confirm current hours before visiting.
Do I need to go to court to change my name in Alameda County?: No for a marriage or divorce name change — your certificate or decree is your legal document. A court-order name change requires filing a petition with the District Clerk and attending a hearing.