How to Change Your Name in California

If you want to change your name in following marriage, you can typically initiate this process when submitting your marriage license. However, you should 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 California, 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 must update your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, and other essential 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 California, you’ll need to file a Petition for a Change of Name in the county where you reside.

The petition must include your current name, desired new name, and the reasons for the change. You may also be required to do a background check. Once filed, a court hearing will be scheduled, and 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 California, a parent or guardian must file a Petition for Change of Name 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 California Driver’s License (information from California DMV).

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

Before you apply for a new driver’s license (DL) or identification card (ID) with your updated name, you must inform the SSA about your name change. The DMV verifies your information with the SSA, so ensure that your new name is recorded correctly with them.

If the SSA information does not match your DL/ID application, your application will be rejected. The DMV will send you a Request for Verification of Information letter explaining the next steps.

2. Fill Out a New DL/ID Application

Use the DMV’s online application portal to apply for a new DL, ID card, or commercial driver’s license (CDL) under your new name. You can also include a request in your application for your new DL/ID to be a REAL ID.

3. Gather Required Documents

For a REAL ID, you will need to provide the following:

• Proof of identity
• Social Security Number
• Two proofs of California residency

For a non-REAL ID or DL/ID, you need to provide proof of your legal full name. Refer to the DMV’s list of acceptable documents for both types of IDs.

If you have changed your name previously, you may need to present documents proving all former name changes. These documents can include:

• Name change documents showing your legal name before and after the change
• Marriage certificates
• Divorce or domestic partnership dissolution documents
• Domestic partnership formation documents
• Adoption documents showing your legal name after the adoption

4. Visit a DMV Office to Finalize the Process

Your name change is only complete after visiting a DMV office. You can either make an appointment or visit without one at your convenience.

Bring the following with you:

• Your current DL/ID
• All necessary proof documents
• Payment for the licensing fee

You will also need to scan your thumbprint as a security measure against identity theft.

Here is the process for changing your name on your Vehicle and Title Registration (information from California DMV).

1. Prepare Your Documents

If You Have the Title:

• Write or type your new or corrected name directly on the title above the name to be updated.
• Complete Section F of the Statement of Facts (REG 256) form and sign it.

If You Do Not Have the Title (Lost, Stolen, or Damaged):

• Fill out an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) form.
• Complete Section F of the Statement of Facts (REG 256) form and sign it.
• Provide at least one proof of ownership document, such as the registration card, Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin, a Letter of Release from the lienholder, or a Bill of Sale with the Registration Certificate.
• Be ready to pay the duplicate certificate of title fee.

If a Lienholder Has the Title:

• Fill out Section F of the Statement of Facts (REG 256) form and sign it.
• Give the completed and signed REG 256 form to your lienholder, requesting them to submit it along with your title to the DMV.

Note: If your last name is hyphenated or consists of multiple words, it will appear as one word on your California Certificate of Title and registration card. This is not considered an error and does not require correction.

2. Submit Your Documents to the DMV

If You Have the Title:

• Bring your title and the completed Statement of Facts (REG 256) to your local DMV office or mail it to:
  • Department of Motor Vehicles
  • Vehicle Registration Operations
  • PO Box 942869
  • Sacramento, CA 94269-0001

If You Do Not Have the Title (Lost, Stolen, or Damaged):

• For name corrections on your registration, mail the completed REG 256 and 227 forms, proof of ownership, and the duplicate certificate of title fee to the address listed above. Alternatively, you can take the documents to a DMV office.
• If you want to change your registration name, you must submit the completed REG 256 and 227 forms, proof of ownership, and the duplicate certificate of title fee in person at a DMV office.
• Be prepared to show your driver’s license or ID card along with one of the following: a valid passport, military ID, state or federal agency-issued ID, college or university-issued student ID, or ID card issued by a California-based employer.

If a Lienholder Has the Title:

• Once you provide your lienholder with the completed REG 256 form, they will submit it along with your title to the DMV on your behalf.

After submitting all the required documents to the DMV, you will receive a new registration card immediately if you visit in person or within 1-2 weeks by mail. The new California Certificate of Title will arrive in about 4-6 weeks.

Here is the process for changing your name on your California Voter Registration (information from the California Secretary of State).

If you have legally changed your name, you need to re-register to vote to ensure your voter record matches your new name. The Secretary of State advises that you update your California driver’s license or ID card with the DMV before updating your voter registration.

• Social Security Administration
• Passport 
• Postal Service

Changing your name might seem straightforward, but simple errors can lead to delays or even denial. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Filing in the Wrong County: You must file your name change petition in the county where you currently reside.

• Skipping the Publication Requirement: Most adult name changes via petition require public notice. Failing to publish correctly can result in your case being dismissed.

• Using Inconsistent Names Across Documents: All your legal and identifying documents (like ID, Social Security, and passport) must match exactly after your name change to avoid complications.

• Forgetting to Order Enough Certified Copies: Many institutions require an official court-certified copy of your name change order. Order extras to avoid delays.

• Missing the Court Hearing: If you don’t show up for your hearing, your petition may be denied or postponed.

• Not Notifying All Agencies and Accounts: Even after your name is legally changed, you’ll need to update your name with:

  • Social Security Administration

  • DMV

  • Passport Office

  • Banks and credit cards

  • Insurance providers

  • Employers

  • And more

Using our Name Change Kit helps ensure nothing gets missed, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.

Do You Have to Publish a Name Change in California?

Yes, in most cases, California law requires adults who are changing their name via court petition to publish a notice of the name change in a local newspaper. This is part of the public notification process and must be done once a week for four consecutive weeks in a court-approved publication within your county.

However, there are exceptions:

• If you’re changing your name after marriage or divorce, publication is not required.

• In some sensitive cases—such as name changes due to domestic violence or gender identity concerns—you may be able to request a waiver from the court.

Once the publication is complete, the newspaper will send a Proof of Publication to you and the court. This document is essential to finalize your name change at your court hearing.

Pro tip: Check with your local Superior Court for a list of approved newspapers in your area, as requirements vary by county.

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

The total time to legally change your name in California depends on the method you use:

• After Marriage or Divorce: If you include your name change when filing your marriage license or divorce decree, the change is effective as soon as those documents are finalized—usually within 2–4 weeks.

• Via Court Petition: This process typically takes 6 to 12 weeks from start to finish. It includes:

  • Filing your petition

  • Completing the newspaper publication (if required)

  • Attending a court hearing

  • Receiving a certified court order

After receiving your legal name change order, updating your name with government agencies (like the DMV, SSA, and passport office) can take an additional 2–4 weeks, depending on processing times.

To speed things up, our Name Change Kit walks you through each step and provides pre-filled forms and instructions to avoid delays.

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

The cost of changing your name in California can vary based on your situation and the county you’re in. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses:

• Court Filing Fee: $435–$480 (varies by county)

• Newspaper Publication: $40–$150, depending on the publication and location

• Certified Copies of Court Order: Around $25 each (you may need several for government agencies)

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

If you can’t afford the court fees, you may qualify for a fee waiver by submitting a Request to Waive Court Fees form when filing your petition.

Changing your name after marriage or divorce is usually free, aside from getting certified copies of your marriage certificate or divorce decree.