text: Social Security Name Change in Tennessee [Complete Guide] | Social Security Resource Center
  For some people who are changing their name in Tennessee, a court order is necessary. If you are only changing your name due to a recent marriage, you can usually skip a court order. You can do this if you give proof of your marriage to the local Social Security office, along with a current driver's license.
  If you do not need a court order, your first step is to make a checklist. The next step is to get the correct forms from SSA and complete them. You'll net need to complete forms for Tennessee agencies before finally contacting federal agencies about your new name.
  While you are changing your legal name, be patient and include all relevant information. Even minor details like your middle name or a current photo ID can become a problem if you forget to include them. For most people, there are only five steps although in Tennessee some residents will also need a court order.
  Complete Forms for Tennessee Agencies
  Writing down the following documents will help you organize the task of changing your name with the state of Tennessee and the federal government.
  Tennessee driver's license or Tennessee state ID card / {State Driver's License Authority}
  Step 5: Complete Forms for Tennessee Agencies
  Changing your name legally isn't a quick and easy process–especially if it is for reasons other than marriage. If you have a criminal record, it's even more work so before deciding to change your name in Tennessee, you should decide if you are willing to go extra the mile.