New York State Eases Requirements On Some Name Changes For Driver's Licenses

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Changing your name on your driver's license just got a lot easier for many New Yorkers.

During a news conference outside the White Plains Department of Motor Vehicles office on Wednesday, elected officials and women's rights advocates announced the DMV has changed its policy regarding name changes to accommodate those who wish to use their maiden name as their middle name.

"Just like Hillary Rodham Clinton or Coretta Scott King or lots of other professional women have wanted to do over the years," Assemblyman David Buchwald, D-Mount Kisco, who pushed for the change, told WCBS 880. "They will be able to do that on their driver's license with just a marriage certificate."

Buchwald said New Yorkers previously had to obtain a name-change order by going through the courts -- a process that took several months, involved at least three court appearances and cost a minimum of $100.

Among those also participating in Wednesday's announcement were state Sen. Andrea Stewart-Cousins, D-Yonkers, and White Plains Mayor Tom Roach.

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