How to Change Your Name in Arizona

If you’re looking to change your name in Arizona following marriage, you can typically 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 Arizona, 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 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 Arizona, you must file a Petition for a Change of Name in the county where you reside. The petition must include your current name, your desired new name, 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 Arizona, 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 Arizona Driver’s License.

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

Before you can update your name on your Arizona driver’s license, you must first update it with the SSA. This is important because the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) verifies your name change with the SSA before processing your request.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Gather the following documents:

• Your current Arizona driver’s license or ID card.
• Proof of your legal name change, such as a certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Only original documents or certified copies from the issuing agency are accepted.

3. Visit an Arizona MVD or Authorized Third-Party Office

You must visit an MVD office or an authorized third-party office in person to complete the name change process. This cannot be done online or by mail. When you visit, bring all the required documents.

4. Pay the Required Fee

The fee for updating your driver’s license or ID card with your new name is typically $12. After submitting your documents and payment, the MVD will issue a replacement driver’s license or ID card with your updated name.

Timeframe

Arizona law requires that you report a name change to the MVD within 10 days of the change. It’s advisable to complete this process promptly to avoid potential issues with your license.

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

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

Just as with your driver’s license, it’s a good idea to update your name with the SSA before updating your vehicle and title registration with the Arizona MVD. This ensures consistency across all your legal documents.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Gather the following documents:

• Your current Arizona vehicle title.
• A completed Title and Registration Application (Form 96-0236).
• Proof of your legal name change, such as a certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
• Written permission from the lienholder if there is an outstanding loan on the vehicle.

3. Visit an Arizona MVD Office or Authorized Third-Party Provider

You must visit an MVD office or an authorized third-party provider to update your name on your vehicle title and registration. This process cannot be completed online or by mail.

4. Pay the Applicable Fees

There is a fee for a corrected vehicle title, typically $4, and additional fees may apply for updating your registration. Fees may vary, so it’s best to check with the MVD or the third-party provider in advance.

5. Receive Your Updated Title and Registration

After processing your application and payment, the MVD will issue a new vehicle title and registration card reflecting your updated name. These documents will be mailed to you.

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

Online Update

You can update your voter registration online through the ServiceArizona portal. To log in and make the necessary changes, you’ll need your Arizona driver’s license or ID number.

By Mail

Download and complete the Arizona Voter Registration Form from the Arizona Secretary of State’s website. After filling out your new name, mail the form to your local County Recorder’s office. Ensure the form is postmarked at least 29 days before an election to be eligible to vote with your new name.

In Person

Visit your County Recorder’s office or a voter registration agency, such as an MVD office, to update your registration in person. Be sure to bring proof of your legal name change and identification.

Important Deadlines

To ensure you can vote under your new name, your updated voter registration must be submitted at least 29 days before an election.

• 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.