Usually, you go to your local court to legally change your last name. In most places, that means filing a petition with the county or superior court in the area where you live, then updating your ID and other records after the court approves it.

Where to start

  • For a legal name change, check your local court’s name-change process and file the required paperwork there.
  • If your last name changes because of marriage or divorce, you may be able to use those documents instead of a separate court petition in some cases.
  • After the court order, update your name with agencies like Social Security and your state motor vehicle office.

What you’ll likely need

  • A completed name-change petition.
  • A filing fee, unless you qualify for a waiver.
  • In some states, notice published in a newspaper before the hearing.

For your area

Since name-change rules vary by state and county, the exact office depends on where you live.