How to Change Your Name in Florida

If you’re looking to change your name in Florida 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 Florida, 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 Florida, 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 Florida, 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 Florida Driver’s License:

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

• Before updating your name on your Florida driver’s license, you must first update your name with the SSA. This ensures that the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) can verify your new name.
• You need to submit a completed Form SS-5, along with your certified name change document (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), proof of identity (e.g., U.S. driver’s license or passport), and proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate). This can be done in person at a local SSA office or by mail.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Gather the following original or certified documents to present at the FLHSMV office:

• Your current Florida driver’s license or ID card.
• Proof of your legal name change (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
• Proof of your Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card, W-2 form).
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence (e.g., U.S. passport, birth certificate).
• Proof of Florida residency (two documents such as a utility bill or bank statement).

3. Visit a Florida FLHSMV Office

• You must visit an FLHSMV office in person to complete the name change process. This cannot be done online or by mail.
• Bring all necessary documents and the fee for updating your driver’s license.

4. Receive Your Updated License

After submitting your documents and paying the fee, the FLHSMV will issue a new driver’s license or ID card. You will receive a temporary license until the new one arrives by mail within 7-10 business days.

Here is the process for changing your name on your Vehicle and Title Registration in Florida:

1. Prepare the Required Documents

Gather the following documents:

• Your current vehicle title or acceptable proof of ownership.
• A completed Application for Duplicate or Lost in Transit/Reassignment for a Motor Vehicle, Mobile Home, or Vessel Title Certificate (Form HSMV 82101).
• Proof of your legal name change (e.g., certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
• Your current Florida driver’s license or ID card.

2. Visit a Local County Tax Collector’s Office

• You must visit your local County Tax Collector’s office in person to complete the name change on your vehicle title and registration. This process cannot be done online or by mail.
• Bring all necessary documents. Fees for updating your vehicle title include a corrected (electronic) title fee and additional fees for a printed copy or duplicate registration card.

3. Submit Your Documents

• Submit the completed application along with the required documents and payment for the applicable fees.
• The County Tax Collector’s office will update your Florida registration records and issue a replacement title and/or registration card.

Fees

The fees for updating your vehicle title include:

• Corrected (electronic) title fee
• Additional fees for a printed copy
• Duplicate registration card fee

You can contact the FLHSMV for specific costs.

Here is the process for changing your name on your Voter Registration in Florida:

Online Update

• Visit the Florida Online Voter Registration System to update your voter registration information, including your name.
• You will need your Florida driver’s license or ID card number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to complete the online update.

By Mail or In Person

• Download and complete the Voter Registration Application form from the Florida Division of Elections website.
• Provide your Florida driver’s license number, Florida identification card number, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
• Mail the completed form to your local County Supervisor of Elections office. You can also submit the form in person at the Supervisor of Elections office or any Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) office.

Visiting the Local Supervisor of Elections Office

• You can update your name on your voter registration by visiting your local Supervisor of Elections office. Bring proof of your name change and identification documents.

Receiving Your Updated Voter Information Card

• Once your name change is processed, you will receive a new voter information card by mail. This card includes important information about your registration record and polling place.

Important Deadlines

• Submit your updated registration at least 29 days before an election to be eligible to vote with your new name in that election.

• Social Security Administration
• Passport 
• Postal Service

Changing your name might seem like a simple process, but small errors can lead to delays—or even having your request denied. Here are some of the most common mistakes to watch out for in Florida:

Filing in the Wrong County

Your petition must be filed in the county where you currently reside. Filing in the wrong jurisdiction can cause delays or dismissal.

Skipping the Background Check

In Florida, adults petitioning for a name change must usually undergo a state and federal fingerprint-based background check. Missing this step is one of the most common reasons petitions are delayed.

Not Completing the Required Publication

Some name changes require you to publish notice in a local newspaper. If you skip this step (and don’t get a waiver), your name change may be rejected.

Inconsistent Information Across Documents

Make sure your new name appears exactly the same on all updated documents. Mismatched names can cause issues with banks, the DMV, and government agencies.

Ordering Too Few Certified Copies

Once your name change is approved, you’ll need certified copies of your court order to update your name everywhere. Order extra copies upfront to avoid repeated trips to the courthouse.

Not Updating All Required Agencies

Many people forget to notify all the places their name appears. After your legal name change, don’t forget to update:

• The Social Security Administration

• Florida DMV

• Passport Office

• Banks and credit cards

• Insurance providers

• Employers and payroll

• Utilities and service providers

Do You Have to Publish a Name Change in Florida?

In many cases, yes. If you’re changing your name in Florida through a court petition, you are generally required to publish notice of your name change in a local, court-approved newspaper. The notice must appear once a week for four consecutive weeks.

There are some exceptions:

• If your name change is tied to marriage or divorce, publication is not required.

• If you’re changing your name due to safety concerns—such as escaping domestic violence or protecting your privacy—you can ask the court to waive the publication requirement.

Once publication is complete, the newspaper will provide a Proof of Publication, which you must file with the court before your name change can be finalized.

Tip: Contact your county’s circuit court to get a list of approved newspapers and any local rules that may apply.

How Long Does It Take to Change Your Name in Florida?

The timeline depends on how you’re changing your name:

• Marriage or Divorce: If you request a name change during the marriage license or divorce process, the change becomes legal once your certificate or final judgment is issued—typically within 2–4 weeks.

• Court Petition: The petition process usually takes 6 to 12 weeks and includes:

  • Filing your name change petition

  • Completing a background check (for adult name changes)

  • Publishing your name change notice (if required)

  • Attending a court hearing

  • Receiving your signed name change order

After your legal name change is approved, you’ll need time to update your records with agencies like the DMV, Social Security, passport office, and more—expect another 2–4 weeks for that.

Our Florida Name Change Kit can help speed things up by providing clear instructions, pre-filled forms, and a checklist to keep you on track.

How Much Does It Cost to Change Your Name in Florida?

The cost of a legal name change in Florida varies depending on your circumstances and county. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Court Filing Fee: Typically between $400–$450

• Fingerprinting and Background Check (for adults): Around $25–$50

• Newspaper Publication: Costs vary widely, generally $30–$100

• Certified Copies of the Court Order: Usually $10–$20 each

• Name Change Kit (Optional): [Insert your price or link here] – Includes custom instructions, pre-filled forms, and expert support

Can’t afford the fees? You may be eligible for a fee waiver by submitting an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status with your court filing.

For marriage or divorce-related name changes, there’s usually no additional fee beyond obtaining certified copies of your marriage certificate or divorce decree.