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How to Change Your Name in West Virginia
Every West Virginia county handles name changes a little differently — different clerk offices, fees, and processing times. Below are detailed, county-specific guides plus the steps that apply statewide.
Pick your West Virginia county
Every West Virginia county is covered. Pick yours for the offices, fees and forms that apply where you live.
Barbour County
Berkeley County
Boone County
Braxton County
Brooke County
Cabell County
Calhoun County
Clay County
Doddridge County
Fayette County
Gilmer County
Grant County
Greenbrier County
Hampshire County
Hancock County
Hardy County
Harrison County
Jackson County
Jefferson County
Kanawha County
Lewis County
Lincoln County
Logan County
Marion County
Marshall County
Mason County
McDowell County
Mercer County
Mineral County
Mingo County
Monongalia County
Monroe County
Morgan County
Nicholas County
Ohio County
Pendleton County
Pleasants County
Pocahontas County
Preston County
Putnam County
Raleigh County
Randolph County
Ritchie County
Roane County
Summers County
Taylor County
Tucker County
Tyler County
Upshur County
Wayne County
Webster County
Wetzel County
Wirt County
Wood County
Wyoming County
The West Virginia name-change steps
1. Certified copies. Get them from your county clerk (marriage) or the Circuit Clerk (divorce or court order).
2. Social Security. Update your SSA record first — it's free.
3. West Virginia DMV. Reissue your license with your new name.
4. Passport. Submit the correct form with a certified copy.
Get your exact West Virginia county guide
Personalized to your county and reason — offices, fees, forms, clickable links, and a fillable tracker, emailed straight to you.
Get my guide → $24.99Frequently asked questions
- How do I change my name in West Virginia?
- Get certified copies of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, then update Social Security, your West Virginia driver's license, and your passport in that order. Exact offices and fees vary by county — pick your county below.
- How long does a name change take in West Virginia?
- A marriage or divorce name change usually takes a few weeks once you have certified copies. A court-order name change takes longer because of the petition and hearing.