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.
The short answer
After a marriage: order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the San Mateo County Clerk — $19.00 each. Then update Social Security, then your California DMV license, then your passport, in that order. No court filing is required.
After a divorce or a court order: your certified copies come from the San Mateo County Superior Court instead. The rest of the sequence is identical.
Order matters. Social Security has to be updated before the California DMV — the license office checks your SSA record, and if it still shows your old name they will turn you away.
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 San Mateo County Superior Court (below).
San Mateo County Clerk
San Mateo County Superior Court
Phone: (650) 261-5100 · Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Certified copy fee: $25 per certified copy
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
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
Driver's license / ID 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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Get my San Mateo County guide → $24.99Frequently 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 Superior Court, Civil Division and attending a hearing.
Sources: San Mateo County Clerk · San Mateo County Superior Court · Social Security Administration · how we verify this