If you are the parent or guardian of a minor (someone younger than 18), you can use this form to legally change the minor's legal name.

You need to tell the judge why you need the name change. But "it is the name that I use" is a good reason.

This interview makes the "Petition for Change of Name of a Minor" form to file with the court. You must also separately make:

• The Court Activity Record Information form
• The Affidavit Disclosing Care or Custody Proceedings form

More information:

• Legally change the name of a child under 18
• Original form

Can I use this tool?

If you are the parent or legal guardian of a minor, you can use this form. If you are a minor, your parent or guardian needs to fill out this form for you.

If the child is over 12, the judge will only approve the name change if the child agrees to it.

Before you start

Before you file the document that this interview makes, you will need:

• A certified copy of the birth certificate
• A certified copy of any previous name changes
• If the child is over 11, the child's notarized signature
• The completed CARI and Affidavit Disclosing Care or Custody Proceedings documents

Changing the legal name of the child is only one step in the name change process. You may also need to change the minor's:

• Birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Passport

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