Before submitting the name change application, the applicant must obtain both a state and national criminal history records check.^[1] The applicant will need to be fingerprinted, which can be done at their local sheriff’s office. Two sets will be required.

The applicant will need to obtain an FBI background check. They must complete and file the Identity History Summary Request Form, along with one of the fingerprint cards, which can be done either online or by mail.

The second criminal record check document the applicant will need to complete is the Right to Review – Request Form. This is to be sent by mail to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), along with the fingerprint card and the filing fee.

Following the background checks, the petitioner must contact the clerk of the superior court to find out where to post a Notice of Intent to File Name Change.^[2] This notice must be completed and posted for 10 days before applying for a name change.

Victims of domestic violence, stalking, and sexual violence may be exempt from the posting requirement.

After 10 days are up, the applicant can file the following documents:

If the clerk of court approves the change, they will sign an Order on Application for Adult Name Change and issue a Certificate of Name Change. If the petition is denied, the applicant can request a hearing for reconsideration within 30 days of the denial.

An individual can also change their name during marriage. 10 days after the ceremony, they can request a certified copy of their marriage certificate from the register of deeds of the county where the marriage took place. The certificate can also be purchased online.

During the divorce process, an individual may request that their former name be included in the divorce decree.^[5] Otherwise, an Application/Notice for Resumption of Former Name may be used. This document may also be used in the event of the death of a spouse.