About Changing Your Name on Your Iowa Registration

State law mandates that you change your name on car registration in Iowa after marriage, divorce or any other life event that results in your name being altered. It is important for your vehicle records to be current in order to avoid problems when renewing your car registration or performing other tasks.

Before you can change car registration credentials, you must first update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Without this step, you may not be able to complete your DMV name change request.

The most common reasons for a name change are marriages and divorces, but your name may have changed due to other circumstances. The reason for your name change will determine the type of proof you will need to submit to obtain an updated registration.

For tips on changing name on car registration in IA, review the sections below.

When to Change Name on Car Registration in Iowa

There are several reasons why you might need to perform a name change on car registration. One of the most common is marriage. If you are changing your name to take on your partner’s last name, you will need to notify the DMV.

The same applies to divorce if you are returning to your previous name. Even if your previous name was listed on your registration before, you must still notify the DMV when you revert to it.

Other reasons for an Iowa DMV name change include:

• Taking the last name of an adoptive parent.
• Altering your name due to personal preference.
• Changing your name as part of gender transition.

Download our free guide to get information regarding name changes.

Changing Name on Car Registration in Iowa

To easily complete the name change process, it is important to have a name change checklist. The first task on your list is changing the name on your state-issued driver’s license. To do so, you must visit an Iowa driver’s license office in person. Currently, the department does not allow you to update your license online or by phone.

You must provide proof of your name change, such as a certified marriage certificate, divorce decree or other court order. Keep in mind that the department does not accept photocopies or faxes. As such, you must bring the original documents.

The next step is paying the applicable fee to receive an updated driver’s license. Once you update your driver’s license, you can then change your name on your car registration. During that process, you will obtain a registration replacement that reflects your new name.

Download our helpful and free guide for instructions on changing your name on your car registration documents.