Louisiana Petition for Name Change

Create Document
  1. Home »
  2. Name Change Petition »
  3. Louisiana
Document Preview

A Louisiana petition for name change is used by a state resident to request approval from the district court to change their name. It allows the applicant to change their full name, unlike name changes through marriage or divorce, which limit the individual to adopting or restoring a surname. The petition must include the person’s identifying info and reasons for the change.

Downloads: 10
Fill & Customize
Basic Download

Louisiana Petition for Name Change

Last updated November 17th, 2025

A Louisiana petition for name change is used by a state resident to request approval from the district court to change their name. It allows the applicant to change their full name, unlike name changes through marriage or divorce, which limit the individual to adopting or restoring a surname. The petition must include the person’s identifying info and reasons for the change.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be 18 or older
  • If a minor, parental consent is required
  • Convicted felons must finish their sentence before filing

How to Legally Change a Name in Louisiana

Step 1 – Fill out the Paperwork

The name change applicant, or “petitioner,” must fill out a Petition for Name Change. The form may also be completed online. Some courts require that the Petition be notarized. Individuals should contact their local district court to confirm whether this applies.

Step 2 – Check Filing Fees

Court fees differ from one parish to another but generally range from $300 to $500. Individuals who cannot afford the cost may apply for in forma pauperis (IFP) status to request a fee waiver.[1]

Step 3 – File the Petition

Petitioners must file the Petition for Name Change and three photocopies with the district court in one of the following locations[2]:

  • The parish where the petitioner lives
  • The parish where the petitioner was born
  • The parish where the Vital Records Registry is located

Step 4 – Notify the District Attorney

A copy of the Petition for Name Change must be delivered to the district attorney in the parish where it was filed.[3] Once notified, the DA’s office will run a background check on the petitioner before filing an Answer with the district court.

Step 5 – Obtain Judgment

A district court judge will review the Petition and make a final decision. If the judge grants approval, a Judgment will be signed by the judge to authorize the name change.[4]

While rare, the petitioner may need to attend a hearing before the Judgment is signed.[5] In that case, the clerk will notify them of the date and location of their court appearance.

Marriage and Divorce

A marriage certificate serves as legal proof of a name change, allowing an individual to assume their spouse’s last name or a hyphenated version of both surnames.

In a divorce case, a spouse can ask the court to restore their maiden name by including a request in the divorce petition.

Sources

  1. CCP 5181(A)
  2. RS 13:4751(B)
  3. RS 13:4752
  4. RS 13:4754(A)
  5. RS 13:4753