Documents & ID
How to change your name legally (non-marriage)
A legal name change outside of marriage requires a court order. The process involves filing a petition, a brief court hearing, and then updating your records with every agency that holds your name.
Name change petitions are filed in state or county court. Procedures and fees vary by jurisdiction.
Last reviewed: June 5, 2026
What you will need
- ✓Completed name change petition (obtained from court)
- ✓Government-issued photo ID
- ✓Birth certificate (some courts require)
- ✓Proof of state residency
Steps
File a name change petition with your local court
Go to your county or district court and file a petition for a legal name change. The forms are typically available on the court's website or at the clerk's office. You'll need to provide your current legal name, the desired new name, and your reason for changing it.
Tip: Reasons don't need to be elaborate — "personal preference" is sufficient in most states.
Publish a notice in a local newspaper (if required)
Many states require you to publish a notice of your name change petition in a local newspaper for a set period — often 4 weeks — before your hearing. The court clerk can tell you whether your state requires this and which newspapers qualify.
Attend your court hearing
A judge will review your petition. For straightforward name changes, hearings are brief — typically 5–10 minutes. The judge will ask basic questions to confirm the change is not for fraudulent purposes. If approved, you receive a court order.
Get certified copies of your court order
Order multiple certified copies of the court order from the clerk — you'll need one for each agency you update. Typically 3–5 copies covers most people.
Update your Social Security record first
Apply online through your My Social Security account at ssa.gov (fastest), bring the certified court order to a local SSA office in person (same-day processing), or mail Form SS-5 with a copy of the court order. Your new card arrives in 10–14 business days. All subsequent agencies will rely on this updated record.
Update your driver's license or state ID
Take your updated Social Security card and court order to your state DMV. Requirements vary; some states also want a birth certificate.
Update your passport, voter registration, and financial accounts
Work through the same sequence as a marriage name change: passport (submit Form DS-82 with your court order; fee waived if passport is under one year old), voter registration through your state's election website, then bank and employer records.