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In California, how can a bride who is a physician use her maiden name for licensing?

In California, how can a bride who is a physician use her maiden name for licensing?

Q: Can I still use my maiden name even if I'm married?

Absolutely, you can still use your maiden name after marriage. There are no legal restrictions preventing you from using your maiden name in personal or professional contexts. If you want to maintain your maiden name for work while adopting your spouse's name socially, this is a common practice.

Q: Can you still use a maiden name after marriage?

Yes, you can still use your maiden name after marriage. Many people choose to retain their maiden names for various reasons, including professional identity. You can use your maiden name in your career, and it is perfectly acceptable to do so.

Q: Can I go by my maiden name as a doctor?

Yes, you can go by your maiden name as a doctor. It's common for professionals to retain their maiden names for licensing and practice purposes. Just make sure to inform your licensing agency about your name preference to ensure that your credentials reflect your maiden name.

Q: Do you put your maiden name on your marriage license?

Typically, you do not need to include your maiden name on your marriage license if you plan to change your name. However, you can choose to list it if you wish to retain it for professional use. Check with your local marriage license office for specific requirements in your state.

Full question:

I am getting married this year. I am also currently a Physician. I would like to keep my Maiden Name for Professional use only (License, DEA, Medicare, NPI# would remain my maiden name.) I would like to otherwise take my husband's surname. (Paychecks, SSN, Social events, Health care Benefits, etc.) How do I go about this? Is this an unreasonable request or even possible? If possible, where do I begin?

Category: Licenses
Date: 04/07/2025
State: California

Answer:

Normally, a new bride who intends to take her husband's surname as her new legal surname, does so on the marriage certificate. Then she can take that marriage certificate to the bank, IRS, social security office, etc. as proof of her name change.

If there are instances where the bride would like to maintain the maiden surname such as for a professional license, it would be recommended that she approach the licensing agency for their specific procedures. It is fairly common and often can be done informally. The licensing authority may require that the bride's registration be listed as an "AKA" showing both her married name and maiden name.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What happens if I get married and don't change my name?

If you get married and choose not to change your name, your legal name remains the same. You can continue using your maiden name in all aspects of your life, including professional settings. However, you may need to inform your employer and other institutions that you are keeping your maiden name for professional use. It's essential to ensure that any legal documents, such as your marriage certificate, reflect your decision.

Can I use my maiden name even though I'm married?

Yes, you can use your maiden name even after getting married. Many individuals choose to keep their maiden names for professional purposes. You can continue using your maiden name in your career, on business cards, and in professional settings without any legal issues. Just ensure that you communicate this choice to relevant institutions.