How to Change Your Name in Pennsylvania

If you’re looking to change your name in Pennsylvania following marriage, typically you can initiate this process when submitting your marriage license. However, it’s advisable to check with your county clerk as procedures and regulations can vary between counties.

Once married, your marriage certificate becomes the primary legal document for your name change. Upon filing your marriage license at the county courthouse, you can expect to receive a certified copy of your marriage certificate by mail within approximately two weeks. This certified copy can then be used to update your name with various agencies, institutions, and businesses.

In Pennsylvania, changing your name after a divorce is a straightforward process. The name change request can be included in the divorce decree. If the judge approves, the name change becomes official when the decree is signed. You’ll need to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, and other important documents to reflect your new name. Obtain certified copies of the divorce decree to present as legal proof of your name change. This ensures all your records and identification match your new name, helping you transition smoothly to your post-divorce identity.

To change your name via petition in Pennsylvania, you’ll need to file a Petition for Change of Name in the county where you reside. The petition must include your current name, the new name you desire, and the reasons for the change. You may also need to undergo a background check. Once filed, a court hearing will be scheduled, where a judge will review your petition. If the judge approves your request, they will sign an Order Granting Name Change. You’ll then use this court order to update your name on official documents like your Social Security card, driver’s license, and passport.

To change the name of a minor in Pennsylvania, a parent or guardian must file a Petition for Change of Name of a Child in the county where the child resides. The petition must include the child’s current name, the desired new name, and the reasons for the change. Both parents typically need to consent, but if one parent does not agree, the court may still grant the change if it is in the child’s best interest. A court hearing will be scheduled, and if the judge approves, they will sign an Order Granting Name Change. This order is then used to update the child’s official documents.

Here is the process for changing your name on your Pennsylvania Driver’s License.

1. Update Your Name with the Social Security Administration (SSA)

Before updating your name on your Pennsylvania driver’s license, you must first update it with the SSA. This ensures that your new name is correctly recorded with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Gather the following documents:

• Your current Pennsylvania driver’s license or ID card.
• Proof of your legal name change, such as a certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

3. Complete the Required Form

Fill out the Non-Commercial Driver’s License Application to Change/Correct/Replace (Form DL-80). If you are renewing your license within six months, you can use the renewal form (Form DL-143) instead.

4. Visit a Pennsylvania Driver License Center

• You must visit a PennDOT Driver License Center in person to complete the name change. Bring all required documents, including your completed form. Name changes cannot be processed online or by mail.
• Pay the fee for the updated driver’s license or ID card.

5. Receive Your Updated License

After you submit your documents and pay the fee, PennDOT will issue a new driver’s license or ID card with your updated name.

Here is the process for changing the name on your Vehicle and Title Registration in Pennsylvania.

Prepare the Required Documents

Gather the following:

• Your current Pennsylvania vehicle title.
• A completed Application for Correction or Change of Name (Form MV-41A).
• Proof of your legal name change, such as a certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Submit Your Application

You can submit your application and required documents either:

• By Mail: Send your documents to the address provided on the application form (MV-41A).
• In Person: Visit a PennDOT Driver License Center or an authorized Online Messenger Service.

Fees

There may be a fee to update your vehicle title and registration. The fee for a corrected vehicle title is generally around $67, but this can vary, so it’s important to check with PennDOT for the most current fee schedule.

Receive Your Updated Title and Registration

Once your application is processed, PennDOT will issue a corrected vehicle title and, if requested, an updated registration card reflecting your new name.

Here is the process for changing your name on your Voter Registration in Pennsylvania.

Online Update

You can update your voter registration online through the Pennsylvania Online Voter Registration System or the Department of State’s website. You’ll need your Pennsylvania driver’s license or PennDOT ID card number and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

By Mail

Download and complete the Pennsylvania Voter Registration Application form from the Pennsylvania Department of State’s website. Indicate your new name on the form and mail it to your local County Board of Elections. Ensure the form is postmarked at least 15 days before an election to be eligible to vote under your new name.

In Person

You can update your voter registration in person at your local County Board of Elections office, PennDOT photo license and driver’s license centers, or other designated government offices like public libraries. Remember to bring proof of your name change.

Important Deadlines

To vote in an upcoming election, make sure to submit your updated voter registration at least 15 days before Election Day.

• Social Security Administration
• Passport 
• Postal Service

Criminal Background Check: If you are an adult petitioning for a name change, you may need to undergo a criminal background check. This helps ensure that the name change is not being requested to evade law enforcement or creditors.

Consent Requirements: For minors, both parents typically need to consent to the name change. If one parent does not consent, the court will consider whether the change is in the child’s best interest.

Court Discretion: The court has the discretion to deny a name change request if it believes the change is being requested for fraudulent or misleading purposes.

Notification Requirements: You may need to notify certain parties of your name change, such as creditors, employers, and schools.

Impact on Legal Documents: A name change will require updating all legal documents, including your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, and any other identification or financial documents.

Restrictions on Frequency: While there are no specific limits on how often you can change your name, multiple name changes may raise suspicion and could be scrutinized by the court.

Legal Status: If you have any pending legal actions, such as bankruptcy or criminal charges, the court may consider these when reviewing your petition.

Debt and Financial Obligations: Changing your name does not absolve you of any existing debts or financial obligations. Creditors must still be able to track you, and you are required to notify them of your name change.

Immigration Status: If you are not a U.S. citizen, changing your name could affect your immigration status or documentation. It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney before proceeding.