Does wife's last name automatically change when married?

[olwilliams]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Texas
When a woman gets married in the state of Texas, does her last name change immediately to the last name of her husband? Or, does the last name only legally change when driver's license and social security are changed to that of the husband?

 

[ShyCat]

No, and yes.

 

[Ohiogal]

Last name does NOT automatically change. However Shycat is a bit off. When you sign your marriage certificate with your married name you can use that to change your SS card. The name on your SS card becomes your legal name.

 

[LdiJ]

Last name does NOT automatically change. However Shycat is a bit off. When you sign your marriage certificate with your married name you can use that to change your SS card. The name on your SS card becomes your legal name.

However, a married woman is not required to take her husband's last name and until its changed with the SSA the government won't recognize the name change.