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

Order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the Kern 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 Kern County?

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

Where is the Kern County Clerk's office?

Phone: (661) 868-6400. Confirm current hours before visiting.

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

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

Kern County Clerk

Phone: (661) 868-6400

Certified copy fee: $19.00

www.kerncounty.com/government/departments/assessor-recorder

Kern County Superior Court

1415 Truxtun Ave, Bakersfield CA 93301

Phone: (661) 868-5000 · Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Certified copy fee: $25 per certified copy

www.kern.courts.ca.gov

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

Bakersfield

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

Bakersfield

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 Los Angeles.

Fees at a glance

Item	Cost
Certified copies (Kern 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: Hall of Records 1655 Chester Ave Bakersfield 93301. NO CREDIT CARDS IN PERSON — cash/check/money order only. Certificates generated while you wait in person. Confidential marriage at kerncountyclerk.com.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I change my name after marriage in Kern County, CA?: Order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the Kern 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 Kern County?: The Kern County Clerk charges $19.00 for certified copies. Order at least three so each agency can keep one.
Where is the Kern County Clerk's office?: Phone: (661) 868-6400. Confirm current hours before visiting.
Do I need to go to court to change my name in Kern 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.