Changing Your Legal Name: In North Carolina, adults can legally change their name through a court petition. Whether you're ensuring your legal name matches your gender identity, changing your name for personal reasons, or making any other legal name change, this checklist walks you through the process.

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Eligibility & Requirements

Residency REQUIRED

You must be a resident of North Carolina. File your petition in the district court of the county where you live.

Age Requirement

You must be at least 18 years old. Minors require parental consent and a different process.

No Criminal Intent NC REQUIREMENT

You cannot change your name to evade criminal law enforcement or for fraudulent purposes. The court may deny requests that appear to be for illegal purposes.

Verify Current Legal Name

Gather documents showing your current legal name (birth certificate, driver's license, or passport).

Documentation & Preparation

Birth Certificate

Obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate from the NC Vital Records office (or your state of birth if born out of state).

Identification

Have a valid government-issued ID ready (driver's license, passport, or state ID).

Proof of Residency

Prepare documentation showing you live in North Carolina (utility bill, lease agreement, or proof of residence letter).

Court Fee Information

Check with your county clerk's office for current filing fees. Fees typically range from $100-$300 depending on the county.

Background Checks & Clearances

FBI Background Check REQUIRED

You must obtain an FBI background check (fingerprint clearance). Submit fingerprints through an authorized law enforcement agency or fingerprinting service.

SBI Background Check REQUIRED

You must obtain an SBI (State Bureau of Investigation) background check. North Carolina residents can request this through the SBI or a local law enforcement agency.

Affidavits of Good Character REQUIRED

You must obtain TWO affidavits of good character signed by North Carolina county residents who know you. These individuals must attest that you are of good moral character and not seeking the name change for fraudulent purposes.

💡 NC Name Change Timeline

The NC name change process is relatively straightforward if there's no objection. Once you file your petition and meet the requirements, the judge typically approves it within a few weeks to a couple of months. You'll receive a certified order to change your name, which you can then use to update all your documents.

The Petition & Court Process

File Petition REQUIRED

File a Petition for Change of Name with your district court clerk. Include your current name, desired name, and reason for the change.

Notice Posting at Courthouse

In NC, notice of your name change petition must be posted at the courthouse for ten consecutive days.

Objection Period

After publication, there is typically a waiting period for any objections. If no one objects, the judge can approve your petition.

Court Hearing (if needed)

If there are no objections, you may not need to appear in court. The judge may approve your petition in writing.

Obtain Order & Certified Copy

Once approved, request certified copies of the Order for Change of Name from the court clerk. Get at least 5-10 copies.

Post-Name Change Updates

Social Security Card

Visit your local Social Security office with your court order to update your name. They'll issue a new card.

Driver's License

Visit the DMV with your court order to get your driver's license updated. Bring your certified order and ID.

Birth Certificate Amendment

File an amendment with the NC Vital Records office to reflect your new legal name on your birth certificate.

Passport

Update your passport with the U.S. State Department using your court order. Apply in person or by mail.

Bank Accounts & Financial Institutions

Contact banks, credit card companies, investment firms, and insurance companies to update your name.

Employment & Payroll

Notify your employer of your legal name change for W-4s, tax forms, and company records.

Credit Agencies

Update your name with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) to ensure credit reports are accurate.

Insurance Policies

Update auto, home, health, and any other insurance policies with your new legal name.

Estate & Legal Documents

Update your will, trust, power of attorney, and healthcare directives to reflect your new name.

Need Help With Your Name Change?

Melenni can help you navigate the court petition process and ensure all updates are completed correctly.

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DISCLAIMER: This checklist is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Name change laws are complex and vary by individual circumstances. You should consult with a qualified North Carolina family law attorney to ensure your petition is properly prepared and filed. Balbach & Davenport Legal makes no warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of this information.

North Carolina Adult Name Change Checklist