What Does It Take to Legally Change Your Name on Your Birth Certificate?

Changing the information on birth certificates has restrictions because this important document is considered an essential part of a person’s identity and is often used to obtain driver licenses, passports, employment, and so on. As such, there are specific processes, which vary from one state to the next, depending on the type of information that needs to be changed.

In this next section, we will look at some of the more common reasons why you would want to legally change your name on your U.S. birth certificate.

Incorrect Spelling of the Name

Name misspellings can and do occur from time to time. If you notice the name is misspelled on the birth certificate, correcting it is often permitted without a court order, so long as the child has not reached their first birthday. For older children and adults, you may have to obtain a court order and appear in front of a judge to request approval to correct this error.

Name Change Due to Marriage

Most states and the federal government allow you to change your name on your driver’s license, passport, and social security card without having to update or change your name on your birth certificate. Just remember to file the proper documentation and be prepared to show your marriage license to have the name changed.

Name Change Due to Divorce

Again, just like when you got married, you do not need to change your name on your birth certificate and are allowed to change it back to your maiden name on your other identification documents by showing a copy of your court-approved divorce, along with an original copy of your birth certificate, and other documentation.

Personal Decision to Change Your Name

Some people dislike the name they were given by their parents or have other personal reasons why they want to change their name. In these cases, you will need to file a petition with the court and obtain approval to change your name. Once the court grants your request, you can have the name changed on your birth certificate.

Steps to Legally Change Your Name on Your Birth Certificate:

1. Order a copy of your current birth certificate online.
2. Obtain and submit the name change petition with your local court.
3. Appear in front of the judge on your assigned court date to explain your reasons for wanting to change your name.
4. Contact the records office that originally issued your birth certificate and inform them of the change.
5. Submit required documentation and pay any fees.

Once the name change has been processed you should receive a copy of your new birth certificate in the mail from the issuing office. If you are in a hurry and cannot wait on the mail, once you know it has been updated, you can order a new replacement birth certificate online from us, here at Fast Birth Certificates, and select our expedited processing option or call us at (415) 528-2585 for further assistance.