The name change process begins with the petitioner completing the Petition for Name Change. Some courts only accept their own county-specific petition, and the petitioner should contact their county court clerk to ensure they file the correct form. Additional forms may also be required in certain counties.

The Petition and any additional forms must be filed with the district clerk’s office.^[1] The petitioner must provide proof of ID (or proof of residency if not shown on ID) and a filing fee.^[2] Filing may be done in-person, by mail, or online (in some counties). A hearing date will be provided after filing.

The petitioner must attend their hearing and bring proof of ID and residency. If the judge approves the request, they will issue an Order Changing Name.

Individuals may change their name without the court following a marriage or divorce. Newlyweds may state their new name on their marriage certificate. For divorce, individuals may request to have their previous name appear on the divorce decree.

A marriage certificate or divorce decree can be shown to government agencies and offices to demonstrate that the individual’s name has been legally changed.