Instructions for Adult?s Name Change

Who?         Any person, 18 years old or older, may file a petition to change his or her name.

What?          A court order to change your name simply changes your name.  It does not take away any legal rights or responsibilities you had under your original name.  It does not grant any new legal rights, either.  Changing your name will NOT allow you to escape civil or criminal responsibility or your creditors.  Even if the judge changes your name, you will still be held responsible for any debts you have under your original name.   

Where?      You must file the petition to change the your name in the county where you live.

When?        You can file the petition at any time.  However, if you simply want to correct a mistake made on your birth certificate, you may not need a court order.  Contact the Bureau of Vital Statistics (the agency responsible for maintaining birth records)  to see if it is possible for you to amend the birth certificate without a court order, before you pay court costs to change your name. (www.dshs.state.tx.us)

How?          First, you file the Original Petition For Adult?s Name Change.  The petition must be signed by you, in front of a notary (a person authorized to witness signatures.)   You will also need to attach a legible set of your fingerprints on a DPS or FBI approved fingerprint card to the name change petition.  If you have had any criminal history, over the grade of a Class C Misdemeanor, you will need to gather information pertaining to your criminal charges.  If you are required to register as a sex offender, you will need to attach proof that you have informed the agency you are required to register with of your proposed name change.

                        Finally, you will complete the Order Granting Adult?s Name Change, and present it to a judge.  Your name is not changed until the judge signs the order.  The clerk?s office keeps the original, signed order, but can make certified copies for your records.  You will also need certified copies to change your name on your birth certificate and social security records.