Name Change Petition in South Carolina

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: April 2026

South Carolina Requirements

  • File petition in Family Court
  • SLED background check
  • DSS check
  • Court order issued
Filing Location

Family Court in county of residence

Filing Fee

$150 filing fee

How to Complete This Form

  1. 1Obtain a name change petition form from your local court or court website.
  2. 2Complete the petition with your current legal name, proposed new name, and reason for the change.
  3. 3File the petition with the court clerk and pay the filing fee.
  4. 4If required by your state, complete fingerprinting and a criminal background check.
  5. 5If required, publish notice of the name change in a designated newspaper for the required period.
  6. 6Attend the court hearing and bring identification and any supporting documents.
  7. 7After the court grants the order, update your name on identification documents, bank accounts, and other records.

Download Form Template

Download a template for the Name Change Petition customized with South Carolina-specific requirements and instructions.

Name Change Petition in Other States

Other Forms in South Carolina

When to Talk to a Lawyer

  • You have a criminal record or are a registered sex offender and your state imposes additional requirements.
  • You are changing a minor child's name and the other parent objects or cannot be located.

This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.