How to Change Your Name in Michigan

If you’re looking to change your name in Michigan 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan Driver’s License.

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

• Before updating your Michigan driver’s license, you must first update your name with the SSA. The Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) verifies your name change with the SSA, so ensure your Social Security card reflects your new name to avoid delays.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Gather the following original or certified documents:

• Your current Michigan driver’s license or ID card.
• Proof of your legal name change (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
• Additional proof of identity may be required if not already on file with the SOS.

3. Visit a Michigan SOS Office

• To complete the name change process, you must visit a Michigan SOS office in person. This service cannot be done online or by mail.
• Bring all necessary documents. You will need to pay a fee for the corrected driver’s license or ID card.

4. Receive Your Updated License

• After submitting your documents and paying the required fee, the SOS will issue a new driver’s license or ID card. If your current card is close to expiration, you may be given the option to renew instead of receiving a duplicate.

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

1. Prepare the Required Documents

You will need the following documents:

• Your current vehicle title.
• Proof of your legal name change (e.g., certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
• Your current Michigan driver’s license or ID card.
• Vehicle registration or license plate number.

2. Visit a Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) Office

• You must visit a Michigan SOS office in person to complete the name change on your vehicle title and registration. This service cannot be completed online or by mail.
• All owners listed on the vehicle title must be present with valid identification. If any owners cannot be present, they must complete an Appointment of Agent form to allow someone else to sign on their behalf.

3. Submit Your Documents

• Present the required documents to the SOS representative.
• Pay the fee for a corrected vehicle title. There is no fee for correcting the vehicle registration.

4. Receive Your Updated Title

• After your documents and payment are processed, the Michigan SOS will issue an updated vehicle title. Your registration records will be updated accordingly.

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

1. Online Update

If you have a valid Michigan driver’s license or state ID, you can update your voter registration online through the Michigan Online Voter Registration System. This method is quick and convenient, allowing you to ensure your registration is up-to-date.

2. By Mail

Download and complete the Voter Registration Application form from the Michigan Secretary of State’s website. Once completed, mail the form to your local city or township clerk’s office. Ensure that your application is postmarked at least 15 days before the next election.

3. In Person

Visit your local city or township clerk’s office to update your voter registration in person. If you are updating your registration within 14 days of an election, you must provide proof of residency, such as a Michigan driver’s license, state ID, utility bill, bank statement, or another government document.

4. Important Deadlines

You can update your registration up until 8 p.m. on Election Day by visiting your local clerk’s office. If you are submitting by mail or online, make sure your application is received or postmarked at least 15 days before the election to ensure your changes are processed in time.

• 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.