How to Legally Change Your Name in California: A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing your name can be an empowering decision, whether it’s due to marriage, divorce, gender transition, or simply a personal choice. In California, the legal name change process is designed to be straightforward and accessible, offering a way for individuals to align their identity with their true self. Whether you’re looking to revert to a maiden name, change to a spouse’s name, or adopt a completely new one, understanding the steps can make the process simpler.

To begin the process of a legal name change in California, you’ll need to file a petition with your local Superior Court. The court generally requires you to complete a set of forms and provide justification for your request. If you are requesting a name change for reasons such as marriage or divorce, additional documents, like a divorce decree or marriage certificate, may be needed. However, if you are changing your name for personal reasons, you are not required to provide a reason, but the court still needs to verify the change is for legitimate purposes.

Step 1: Fill Out the Required Forms

The first step in changing your name in California is to complete the necessary forms. The most common form is the Petition for Change of Name (NC-100), which you will file with the court. You will also need to fill out a Request for Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (NC-120), which notifies others of your request to change your name. Other forms may include Attachment to Petition for Change of Name (NC-110) and Declaration of Inability to Pay Court Fees (FW-001) if you are requesting a fee waiver.

Step 2: File the Petition with the Court

Once you have completed the necessary forms, the next step is to file them with the Superior Court in your county. The filing fee can vary depending on your location, but it generally costs between $400-$450. If you cannot afford the fee, you can request a fee waiver by submitting the Fee Waiver Request form. After filing your petition, the court will assign you a hearing date, typically within 6 to 8 weeks.

Step 3: Publish Your Name Change Notice

In California, most people seeking a legal name change must publish a notice of their petition in a local newspaper for four consecutive weeks. This is meant to inform the public of your name change request and allow for objections. However, if publishing a notice poses a safety concern—such as in cases of domestic violence or for transgender individuals, you can request a waiver from the court. You will need to provide evidence supporting the need for privacy, such as a restraining order or similar documentation.

Step 4: Attend the Court Hearing

After the publication period has ended, you will attend a court hearing where a judge will review your petition. At the hearing, the judge will review the forms you submitted and may ask you questions to confirm your intent. If everything is in order, the judge will approve your name change. This approval results in a Decree Changing Name (NC-130), which serves as legal proof of your name change.

Step 5: Update Your Records and Identification

Once you’ve received the court order, you’ll need to update your name on various legal documents, including your driver’s license, Social Security records, and passport. For your driver’s license or ID, you can visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office with your court order, along with other supporting documents, to apply for a new license. For Social Security, you’ll need to file a request with the Social Security Administration (SSA), submitting your court order along with proof of your identity.

Updating your name with the federal government requires similar steps. To change your name on your passport, you will need to submit your court order, passport application, and a passport photo to the U.S. Department of State.

Step 6: Keep Copies of Your Decree

It’s important to keep multiple certified copies of your Decree Changing Name. You will need these copies to update various documents and records, including credit accounts, bank accounts, and insurance policies. You can request additional copies from the court for a small fee.

Conclusion

Changing your name legally in California is a process that can take a few weeks but is relatively simple to navigate if you follow the steps carefully. Whether you are changing your name for personal reasons, due to marriage or divorce, or for gender transition, the legal name change process in California ensures that your new name is recognized across all legal documents. By filing a petition, attending a court hearing, and updating your records, you can successfully move forward with your new identity.