Name Change Petition in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Requirements

• Petition must include current name, proposed new name, residence, and reason for the change
• Notice must be published in two newspapers: one of general circulation and one legal journal
• Court hearing required — judge reviews petition and any objections
• Fingerprinting and criminal background check required
• Name change for minors requires consent of both parents or a court order

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.

Name Change Petition in Other States

Other Forms in Pennsylvania