The Florida name change process starts with a petition filed in circuit court

To change your name legally in Florida, you file a petition in the circuit court of the county where you live, pay a filing fee (usually $200 to $400 depending on the county), and attend a brief hearing where a judge approves or denies your request. You do not need a lawyer, though some people hire one. The whole process typically takes four to eight weeks from filing to final order.

Florida law allows name changes for most reasons — you can change to any name you want, with a few exceptions. The court will deny a petition only if the name change is for fraud, to evade creditors or the law, or to harm someone. Once the judge signs the order, you have a legal document to use when updating your Social Security card, driver's license, passport, and other records.

Key Takeaways

  • You file a petition in the circuit court of your county, not online or by mail to a state office.
  • The filing fee ranges from $200 to $400 depending on which county you live in; call the clerk's office to confirm the exact amount.
  • You must attend a hearing in front of a judge, though the hearing usually lasts only a few minutes and the judge almost always approves the petition.
  • After the judge signs the order, you use it to update your Social Security card, Florida driver's license, and passport with the respective agencies.
  • The entire process from filing to final order typically takes four to eight weeks, though some counties move faster or slower.

Where to file your petition in Florida

You file your petition in the circuit court of the county where you currently live. Florida has 67 counties, each with its own circuit court and clerk's office. You do not file with the state — you go to your local courthouse.

To find your courthouse, search online for "[your county name] circuit court clerk" or "[your county name] courthouse." The clerk's office handles all name change filings. Call them first to ask for the current filing fee, the forms you need, and whether they accept filings in person, by mail, or both. Some counties allow you to file by mail; others require you to appear in person.

If you cannot find the courthouse information online, call your county's main administrative line and ask for the circuit court clerk's office. They will give you the address, phone number, and filing instructions.

The forms and documents you need

The main form is the Petition for Change of Name, which varies slightly by county but contains the same basic information. You fill in your current name, the name you want, your date of birth, your current address, and your reason for the change (you can write "personal reasons" — you do not have to explain). Some counties provide the form on their website; others give it to you when you call or visit.

You will also need to bring or submit a copy of your birth certificate or other proof of identity. A driver's license, passport, or state ID works. If you have been arrested or convicted of a crime, you may need to disclose that — ask the clerk when you call.

Some counties require you to publish a notice of your petition in a local newspaper before the hearing. This is called publication, and it gives the public a chance to object. The clerk will tell you which newspaper to use and how much it costs (usually $50 to $150). Not all counties require this; ask when you call.

Filing fees and costs

The filing fee ranges from $200 to $400 depending on your county. Call the clerk's office to confirm the exact amount before you go. You pay this fee when you file the petition, either in person or by check if you file by mail.

If your county requires newspaper publication, that is a separate cost, usually $50 to $150. Some counties waive or reduce the filing fee if you cannot afford it — ask the clerk if you may have access to for a fee waiver.

After the judge approves your name change, you will need to pay small fees to update your records with other agencies: Social Security (free), Florida driver's license ($20 to $30), and passport (varies). These are not court costs, but they add up if you update multiple documents.

What happens at the hearing

The judge will schedule a hearing, usually two to six weeks after you file. You must attend in person. The hearing is short — often just a few minutes. The judge will ask you your current name, the name you want, and why you want to change it. You answer honestly. The judge almost always approves the petition unless there is evidence of fraud or harm.

Wear neat, clean clothes — nothing extreme. Bring your petition, your birth certificate or ID, and any other documents the clerk asked for. If you filed by mail, the clerk will tell you the hearing date; if you filed in person, they will give it to you on the spot.

You do not need a lawyer to attend the hearing. If you are nervous about speaking in court, you can hire a lawyer to represent you, but most people do this alone and it goes smoothly. After the judge approves your petition, the clerk will give you a certified copy of the Final Order of Name Change. This is your legal proof that your name has changed.

Updating your records after the name change is approved

Once you have the Final Order, use it to update your name with the Social Security Administration, Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (for your driver's license), and the U.S. State Department (for your passport). You do not have to update all of them, but most people do.

For Social Security, visit your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213. Bring your Final Order and a photo ID. There is no fee. Social Security will issue you a new card with your new name within two weeks.

For your Florida driver's license, visit any Florida DMV office or explore online through the Florida DMV website. You will need your Final Order, your Social Security card (old or new), and proof of residence. The fee is $20 to $30 depending on how long you want the license to last.

For your passport, visit a passport acceptance facility (usually a post office or courthouse) or the nearest passport agency. Bring your Final Order, your current passport, and a new passport photo. The fee depends on whether you are renewing or replacing your passport.

How long the process takes

From the day you file your petition to the day the judge signs the Final Order, expect four to eight weeks. Some counties are faster; others slower. The biggest variable is how busy the court is and whether your county requires newspaper publication.

If your county requires publication, add two to four weeks to the timeline — you have to publish the notice, wait the required time (usually 10 to 30 days), and then the hearing is scheduled after that.

Once you have the Final Order, updating your Social Security card takes about two weeks. Your driver's license can be updated when ready if you explore in person at a DMV office. Your passport takes longer — four to six weeks for a standard renewal, or two to three weeks if you pay for expedited processing.

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not assume you can file online or by email. Most Florida counties require you to file in person or by mail to the physical courthouse address. Call ahead to confirm the method your county accepts.

Do not skip the hearing. You must attend in person. If you cannot make the scheduled date, call the clerk when ready and ask to reschedule.

Do not lose your Final Order. Make several copies and keep them in a safe place. You will need certified copies to update your records, and the court can issue more copies if you lose them, but it takes time and costs money.

Do not assume your old documents are invalid after the name change. Your old birth certificate, Social Security card, and driver's license are still legal proof of who you are — they just have your old name. You can use them alongside your Final Order to prove your identity during the transition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a lawyer to change my name in Florida?

No. You can file the petition yourself, attend the hearing alone, and the judge will almost certainly approve it. A lawyer can handle the paperwork for you, but it is not necessary. If you hire one, expect to pay $300 to $800 in legal fees on top of the court filing fee.

Can I change my child's name?

Yes, but the process is slightly different. You file a petition as the parent or guardian, and both parents must consent unless one has lost custody or parental rights. The court may require the child to attend the hearing if they are old enough. Call your county clerk for the specific forms and rules for minors.

What if I have been arrested or convicted of a crime?

You must disclose this on your petition. The court will not automatically deny your request, but the judge will consider it. If the name change appears to be for fraud or to evade the law, the judge can deny it. Be honest on your petition.

Can I change my name back to my maiden name after a divorce?

Yes. You can use the name change process, or you can request it as part of your divorce decree. If your divorce is already final, the name change petition is the way to go. It is the same process as any other name change.

How much does it cost to change my name in Florida?

The court filing fee is $200 to $400 depending on your county. If your county requires newspaper publication, add $50 to $150. If you hire a lawyer, add $300 to $800. After approval, updating your Social Security card is free, but your driver's license and passport have their own fees.