Pennsylvania Name Change Petition — Your Filing Guide

What This Document Does

This petition asks the Court of Common Pleas to legally change your name. Once approved, you can update your ID, Social Security card, and other records to reflect your new name.

When to Use This

• You want to legally change your name for personal, professional, or religious reasons
• You're affirming your gender identity
• You were adopted and want to change your name
• You want to change your name after divorce (separately from the divorce)
• Any other legitimate reason

Before You File

Gather These Documents:

• [ ] Certified copy of your birth certificate
• [ ] Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID)
• [ ] Proof of Pennsylvania residency (utility bill, lease, voter registration)
• [ ] FBI background check (required in PA)
• [ ] Pennsylvania State Police background check (required in PA)
• [ ] $200-250 filing fee OR fee waiver request

Background Check Requirements:

Pennsylvania requires BOTH background checks before filing:

1. FBI Background Check:

• Visit an approved fingerprinting location
• Cost: approximately $50
• Takes 4-6 weeks
• Apply at: https://www.edo.cjis.gov

1. PA State Police Background Check:

• Apply online: https://epatch.state.pa.us
• Cost: approximately $22
• Takes 1-2 weeks

Step-by-Step Filing

Step 1: Complete the Petition

Fill in every blank:

1. Your current name — exactly as it appears on your ID
2. Your new name — the exact name you want
3. Your personal information — date of birth, address, Social Security number
4. Your reason — explain why you want to change your name
5. Criminal history — disclose any convictions honestly
6. Background check results — attach both reports

Step 2: Make Copies

Make 3 copies:

• Original for the court
• 1 copy for yourself
• 1 copy for the court's file

Step 3: File with the Court of Common Pleas

Where to file:

• Court of Common Pleas in the county where you live

Major Courts:

• Philadelphia County: 1501 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102
• Allegheny County (Pittsburgh): 440 Ross Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
• Montgomery County: 2 Airy Street, Norristown, PA 19401
• Bucks County: 100 North Main Street, Doylestown, PA 18901
• Delaware County: 201 West Front Street, Media, PA 19063

Bring:

• Completed petition
• FBI background check
• PA State Police background check
• Birth certificate
• Photo ID
• Filing fee ($200-250)

Step 4: Publication (If Required)

Some Pennsylvania counties require publication of notice in a newspaper. The court will tell you if this is required.

If required:

1. The court designates a newspaper
2. Publish notice (cost: approximately $50-150)
3. File proof of publication with the court

Step 5: Attend Your Hearing

The court will schedule a hearing.

Bring:

• Your filed petition
• Background check results
• Government-issued ID
• Birth certificate

What to say:

• "Your Honor, I am [CURRENT NAME]. I filed a petition for name change on [DATE]."
• "I have completed the required background checks."
• "I am requesting that my name be changed to [NEW NAME]."

Step 6: Get Certified Copies

If approved, get certified copies (approximately $5-10 each). You'll need multiple copies for:

• Social Security Administration
• PennDOT (driver's license)
• Banks
• Employer
• Schools

After Your Name Change

Update Your Social Security Card

1. Complete Form SS-5 (available at ssa.gov)
2. Bring: certified court order, current ID, birth certificate
3. Visit your local Social Security office
4. New card is free and arrives in 1-2 weeks

Update Your Driver's License

1. Visit a PennDOT center within 15 days
2. Bring: certified court order, current license, Social Security card with new name
3. Pay the amendment fee (approximately $30)

Update Your Birth Certificate (If Born in PA)

1. Contact Pennsylvania Department of Health, Division of Vital Records
2. Submit certified court order
3. Fee: approximately $20

Update Other Records

• Banks and financial institutions
• Employer and payroll
• Insurance companies
• Schools and universities
• Passport (if applicable)
• Voter registration
• Professional licenses

Timeline

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take?

A: Approximately 8-12 weeks (including background checks).

Q: Do I need a lawyer?

A: No. Many people handle name changes themselves. Free legal help is available.

Q: Will my criminal record disappear?

A: No. A name change does NOT erase your criminal record or legal obligations.

Q: Can I change my child's name?

A: Yes, but both parents must usually consent. If not, the court holds a hearing.

Q: What if I have a criminal record?

A: The court will review carefully. Disclose everything honestly.

Legal Aid Resources

If you need free legal help:

• Philadelphia Legal Assistance: (215) 981-3800
• Pittsburgh Legal Services: (412) 255-6520
• MidPenn Legal Services: (800) 326-9177
• North Penn Legal Services: (800) 833-4411
• LSC Finder: https://www.lsc.gov/about-lsc/what-legal-aid/find-legal-aid

Disclaimer

This guide and the petition template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Name change procedures may vary by county. For legal advice specific to your situation, contact a licensed attorney or the legal aid organizations above.

Not a law firm. Not your attorney. No attorney-client relationship exists.