The following steps will make your name change official:

1. Order extra certified copies of your marriage certificate for agencies that require originals before allowing you to change your name on documents, such as the department of motor vehicles.

2. If you are a man changing your name at marriage, check your marriage certificate to see if there is a space to indicate a name change. If not, you will need court papers to legally change your name. This is not necessary for women.

3. Request a new Social Security card or cards reflecting the name change. Call the Social Security Administration to obtain forms and instructions.

4. Make an appointment to visit the department of motor vehicles for a new driver's license. Ask in advance which documents you will need to bring in order to certify the validity of your name change.

5. Obtain and complete a Passport Amendment/Validation Application. Send this, along with appropriate fees, your current passport(s), and a certified documentation of your name change (such as a certified copy of a marriage certificate or court papers) to the nearest passport agency.

6. Order replacements for checks, business cards, credit cards and other documents that contain your old name.

7. Call employers and schools (if you are a student) to let them know your new name, and ask them to change it in their records.

8. Change your name on your car registration, with your insurance and mortgage companies, and with your frequent-flier program.

9. Contact the post office, utility companies and registrar of voters.