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How to Change Your Name in Ventura County, California

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

Ventura County Clerk

Phone: (805) 654-2263

Certified copy fee: $19.00

clerkrecorder.venturacounty.gov

Ventura County Superior Court

800 S Victoria Ave, Ventura CA 93009

Phone: (805) 289-8900 · Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Certified copy fee: $25 per certified copy

www.ventura.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

Oxnard

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

Ventura

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

ItemCost
Certified copies (Ventura County)$19.00
Social Security card updateFree
Driver's license reissue$36 (DL renewal/name change)
U.S. passport update$0–$130 (depends on timing)

Local note: NO WALK-IN SERVICE — appointments only. 800 South Victoria Ave Ventura CA 93009. Marriage licenses issued to Ventura County residents only. Book: acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=19758872

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Frequently asked questions

How do I change my name after marriage in Ventura County, CA?
Order certified copies of your marriage certificate from the Ventura 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 Ventura County?
The Ventura County Clerk charges $19.00 for certified copies. Order at least three so each agency can keep one.
Where is the Ventura County Clerk's office?
Phone: (805) 654-2263. Confirm current hours before visiting.
Do I need to go to court to change my name in Ventura 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.