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

Order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the San Mateo 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 San Mateo County?

The San Mateo County Clerk charges $19.00 for certified copies. Order at least three so each agency can keep one.

Where is the San Mateo County Clerk's office?

Phone: (650) 599-1713. Confirm current hours before visiting.

Do I need to go to court to change my name in San Mateo 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 San Mateo County, California

Changing your name in San Mateo County (county seat: Redwood City) means working through several offices in a specific order. This page lays out the exact steps, offices, and fees for San Mateo 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 San Mateo County Clerk. For divorce or a court order, you'll get certified copies from the District Clerk (below).

San Mateo County Clerk

Phone: (650) 599-1713

Certified copy fee: $19.00

smcacre.gov

San Mateo County Superior Court

400 County Center, Redwood City CA 94063

Phone: (650) 261-5100 · Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Certified copy fee: $25 per certified copy

www.sanmateocourt.org

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

Redwood City

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

Redwood City

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 (San Mateo County)	$19.00
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: 555 County Center 1st Floor Redwood City 94063. Does NOT process online orders directly — only via VitalChek. Hours 8am-5pm M-F. Appointments: appts.smcacre.org.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I change my name after marriage in San Mateo County, CA?: Order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the San Mateo 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 San Mateo County?: The San Mateo County Clerk charges $19.00 for certified copies. Order at least three so each agency can keep one.
Where is the San Mateo County Clerk's office?: Phone: (650) 599-1713. Confirm current hours before visiting.
Do I need to go to court to change my name in San Mateo 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.