How to Verify a Legal Name Change in California

You probably will need to verify your name change with many businesses.

You filed the petition and changed your name--whether to reclaim a former surname after a divorce or to rechristen yourself for personal reasons--and, as far as you are concerned, the case is closed. However, the fact that a California court approved your name-change request does not automatically change your name in every other government office and private business that require identification. Banks, insurance agencies, the California Department of Motor Vehicles, the Social Security Administration all need to be sure they have your correct legal name so be prepared to verify the legal name change.

Things You'll Need

• Fee for obtaining certified copy of order or judgment

Instructions

1. 

   A name change is legal in California only if it results from a court order.

   Identify the proceedings in which your name was changed, including the name of the court and the case number. Under California Rules of Court, the first page of any document that you or your attorney filed in the action will have both the court name and case number written on it.

2. 

   Courts often have recorded information giving street location and business hours.

   Determine the court location and business hours. Visit the California Courts website or telephone the court to obtain the information.

3. Visit the court during business hours. In many California courts, visitors must pass through security in order to go to the clerk's office, so leave unnecessary material home.

4. Give the court clerk the name and number of your case. Ask for a certified copy of the order or judgment. The certified copy will have a pressed seal or an original stamped impression. Pay the fee for the certified copy.

5. Provide a copy of the certified copy to the business or office requiring verification. Some offices, such as the California Department of Motor Vehicles, require a certified copy in order to change your name in their records.

Tips & Warnings

• Obtain several certified copies of the order while you are at the court. You probably will need them for verifying your name change in the future.

• Some agencies, such as the California Department of Motor Vehicles, charge a fee for changing your name on your documents.

References

• California Department of Motor Vehicles: Birth Date and Legal Presence and True Full Name Requirements
• California Department of Health: Obtaining Certified Copies Marriage and Divorce Records
• California Court: Rules

Resources

• California Superior Courts