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Name Change

Rev. May 2022

This section explains the general process of having your name change recognized outside of the Navy, particularly after marriage. In general, once a legal basis for the name change has been established, three forms of identification (and the agencies that manage them) control recognition of the new name: (1) Passport; (2) Social Security, and (3) Driver’s License (think: PSD). PSD can also assist you in changing your name within the Navy, which can occur before you follow the steps below. BUPERS INSTRUCTION 1750.10D.

How to change your name:

You must have a legal basis to change your name. The most common bases are marriage or court order.

U.S. citizens: Marriage certificates are generally sufficient to change your name. If you want to change your name for another reason, you will require a U.S. court order.

Other citizens: Consult with your Embassy on what is required to change your name.

What to do once your name is changed for U.S. Citizens:

1) Passport in Your New Name: The first step to having your new name recognized is getting a passport in your new name. In many cases, you can complete this step by mail or online.

2) Update Your Social Security Card: Once you update your passport, you must then update your social security card.

3) Update Your Driver’s License: The third and final step in having your new name recognized is getting a new driver’s license. Because each state is different, you will need to check your state’s specific requirements. Generally, states require the following:

4) Update your name everywhere else: With a passport, Social Security card, and driver’s license in your new name, you should have no issues having your name recognized at other government agencies or private businesses, such as:

OCONUS – Japan Specific

U.S. citizens: Marriage certificates, including Japanese ones, are generally sufficient to change your name. If you want to change your name for another reason, you will require a U.S. court order. Japanese courts cannot change names of non-Japanese citizens.

Japanese citizens: For 6 months following marriage, you may change your name by submitting a report of name change to your registered city hall. Following termination of the marriage (including divorce, death, or annulment), you can change your name back to your previous name within 3 months. If you fail to change your name during these periods, you must petition a Japanese family court to change your name.