How do I legally change my name in South Carolina?

South Carolina adult name changes are governed by S.C. Code Ann. §§ 15-49-10 through 15-49-40 and filed in the family court of the petitioner's county of residence.

1. File the Petition

Complete the Petition for Change of Name (SCCA Form 422).

File with the family court clerk; filing fee is approximately $150.

Must be a South Carolina resident.

2. Background Screenings

South Carolina requires several screenings before the hearing (S.C. Code § 15-49-20):

- SLED state criminal record check.

- FBI fingerprint-based background check.

- DSS Central Registry of Child Abuse and Neglect search.

- Sex offender registry check.

Each costs $25–$65.

3. Disclosures

Petition must disclose felony convictions, civil judgments, sex-offender status, and any child-support arrears.

Sex offenders and certain violent felons generally cannot change their name (S.C. Code § 15-49-20(C)).

4. Hearing

Family court holds a hearing after all background checks are completed.

Judge enters an Order for Change of Name if change is in the petitioner's best interest and not contrary to public interest.

5. After the Decree

Certified copies ($5 each).

File SSA Form SS-5 (free).

Update South Carolina DL at SCDMV ($10), passport, voter registration, banks.

6. Divorce-Based Restoration

S.C. Code § 20-3-180 allows restoration of a former name in the divorce decree without separate name-change action.

This is legal information, not legal advice.