Oregon Petition for Change of Name
Last updated December 10th, 2025
An Oregon petition for change of name is used to request court approval for a legal name change. It also specifies whether the petitioner wishes the record to be sealed and how the name change might affect public interest. This document can also be used to petition the court for a legal sex designation change.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be 18 years old or older
- Must be a resident of the county where filing
- Minors must have petition filed by a parent or guardian
How to Legally Change a Name in Oregon
Step 1 – Prepare Documents
The petitioner must complete the
Petition for Change of Name and
Judgment for Change of Name (excluding fields intended for the court clerk or judge). The
Petition can also be created via the
Oregon Courts website. Certain counties might ask for additional forms.
Step 2 – File with Clerk
Both forms must be
filed with the circuit court of the county where the petitioner lives (in person, by mail, or
online).
[1] A filing fee must be paid to the court clerk.
Step 3 – Await Approval
Though uncommon, the court may send a hearing notice to the petitioner after filing. If so, the petitioner must attend and explain their request to a judge. In most cases, no hearing will be required and the judge may directly enter a Judgment approving the name change.
Step 4 – Obtain Judgment
Once the name change is approved, the petitioner will receive a
Notice of Entry of Judgment. The petitioner may
order certified copies of the
Judgment online. This form is required to update their name on official documents, such as a driver’s license or birth certificate.
Marriage and Divorce
A court petition is not required if a name is being changed as part of a marriage or divorce. An individual may adopt their spouse’s last name when marrying, and the change will be reflected on their marriage certificate.[2] In a divorce, an individual may resume their former last name, which will appear on the decree.[3]
To update government agency records and documents, individuals must present the marriage certificate or divorce decree showing the new name.