You can change your PlayStation Network name through your account settings on any device with internet access

Your PlayStation Network (PSN) name is the username that appears to other players and on your profile. Sony lets you change it, though the process depends on whether you are using a PlayStation console, a computer, or a mobile device. The name change itself takes a few minutes once you are in the right menu, but there are a few rules about what names are allowed and how often you can change them.

You will need to know your current PSN password to make the change. If you have forgotten it, you can reset it through your Sony account page before you start. The new name you choose must follow PlayStation's community standards — it cannot contain offensive language, impersonate another player, or include certain symbols.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your PSN name from a PlayStation console, a web browser, or the PlayStation app on your phone.
  • Your first name change is free; subsequent changes cost money (the exact amount varies by region).
  • The name change takes effect when ready, but some games and apps may take a few hours to show the new name.
  • You cannot change your name more than once every 30 days, and certain words or symbols are not allowed.
  • If you forget your password, you must reset it through your Sony account before you can change your name.

Changing your name on a PlayStation console

On a PS4 or PS5, go to your profile by pressing the PS button on your controller and selecting your profile icon. From there, select Profile, then Edit Profile. You will see an option for Online ID — this is your PSN name. Select it and enter the new name you want.

After you type the new name, the system will check whether it is available and whether it follows PlayStation's rules. If the name is taken or contains blocked words, you will see an error message and can try again. Once you find a name that works, confirm the change. The system will ask you to enter your password to verify that you own the account.

The name change takes effect right away on your console. However, other players may not see the new name when ready in all games and apps — some take a few hours to sync the change across their servers.

Changing your name through a web browser

You can also change your PSN name by going to the Sony account website on any computer or phone. Go to www.playstation.com, sign in with your email and password, and select your profile icon in the top right corner. Choose Account, then Profile.

Look for the section labeled Online ID and select Change next to it. Type in your new name and follow the same process as on the console — the system will check availability and content rules, then ask for your password to confirm. Once you submit, the change is live.

Using the PlayStation app on your phone

The PlayStation app for iPhone and Android also lets you change your name. Open the app, tap your profile icon at the bottom of the screen, and select Profile. Tap Edit Profile, then find Online ID and select Change.

Enter your new name, wait for the system to check it, and confirm with your password. The process is the same as on console or web — the change takes effect when ready, though games may take time to display it.

What names are not allowed

PlayStation blocks names that contain profanity, slurs, or hateful language. The system also rejects names that impersonate real people or celebrities, names that are sexually explicit, and names that encourage violence or illegal activity. Certain symbols and characters are also not permitted — stick to letters, numbers, and hyphens.

If you try a name and it is rejected, the system will tell you why. You can then try a different name. There is no limit to how many times you can try different names during a single change session — you only pay once you have chosen a name that is accepted.

The cost and frequency of name changes

Your first PSN name change is free. After that, each change costs money. The price varies by region — it is typically between $5 and $10 USD, or the equivalent in your local currency. You can only change your name once every 30 days, so plan ahead if you want to try a different name.

If you change your mind within a short time, contact PlayStation Support to ask about a reversal. They may be able to restore your old name at no cost if you request it quickly, though this is not may provide. After that window closes, you would have to pay for another change.

What happens to your games and friends after a name change

Your games, trophies, and progress stay with your account — changing your name does not affect any of that. Your friends list remains the same, and your friends will see your new name the next time they check their friends list or play with you.

Some older games may take longer to show your new name because they sync with PlayStation's servers on their own schedule. If a game shows your old name for a few hours after you change it, that is normal. Restarting the game or waiting a few hours usually fixes it. If a game still shows your old name after 24 hours, contact that game's support team.

Troubleshooting common problems

If you see an error message that says your password is wrong, make sure you are typing it correctly. Passwords are case-sensitive, so check that Caps Lock is off. If you have forgotten your password, go to www.playstation.com, select Sign In, and choose Can't sign in? Follow the steps to reset your password, then try the name change again.

If the system says your desired name is taken, try adding a number or hyphen to make it unique. If it says the name violates community standards but you believe it does not, you can contact PlayStation Support to appeal. Keep in mind that the system is automated and sometimes flags names that are not actually against the rules — support can review your case.

If you changed your name but it is not showing up in a specific game, restart that game or restart your console. If the old name persists after 24 hours, the game may have a separate username system that is not linked to your PSN name — check that game's settings to see if you need to change it there as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my PSN name back to what it was before?

Yes, but you will have to pay for it (except for your first free change). If you change your name and then want your old name back, you can change it again after 30 days have passed. However, if someone else has claimed your old name in the meantime, you will not be able to use it.

What if someone else took the name I want?

PSN names are first-come, first-served. If the name you want is taken, you cannot use it unless that player changes their name and it becomes available again. Try adding numbers, hyphens, or underscores to create a variation of the name you want.

Do I have to change my name on all my devices?

No. Your PSN name is tied to your account, not to individual devices. Once you change it on one console, computer, or phone, it updates across all devices where you are signed in with that account. You only need to make the change once.

Will my friends still be able to find me after I change my name?

Yes. Your friends list does not change, and your friends will see your new name in their friends list and when you play together. You will still appear in their recent players list under your new name.

What if I see an error saying I have changed my name too recently?

PlayStation enforces a 30-day waiting period between name changes. If you see this error, you will have to wait until 30 days have passed since your last change. Mark the date on a calendar so you know when you can change it again.