How To Change Your Legal Name In California

Choose the option that best fits your situation:

File a proper name change petition
Filing a Petition for a Change of Name is the most common process and results in a court order. This section will walk y'all through the steps.

Divorced or getting divorced
If y'all want to alter your proper name back to your maiden name or a prior married name, select this process.

Changing an Adult'due south Name to Conform to Gender Identity
If y'all want to change your name to make it friction match your gender identity, select this process.

Recognition of gender change
If you want to legally change your gender (with or without a proper name alter too), proceed with this option.

Getting married
If you recently got married and want to alter your concluding name to your spouse's last name, you may not have to get to court. Contact both your local DMV part and your social security office, and inquire them whether you tin change the name on your driver'south license and social security card simply by showing your marriage license or certificate. Note that it is possible they will tell you to get a courtroom club, then be prepared for that.

Note: In California, you generally accept the legal right to change your proper name only past using a new proper noun in all aspects of your life, also known every bit the "usage method." BUT, with few exceptions, government agencies require a court social club equally official proof of a proper name alter and then getting a court order is the all-time way to brand sure you legally modify your name.