{"id":354797,"date":"2022-06-14T21:22:40","date_gmt":"2022-06-15T02:22:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/lgbtq-law\/how-to-change-your-legal-name-and-gender-marker.html"},"modified":"2026-06-11T11:08:00","modified_gmt":"2026-06-11T16:08:00","slug":"how-to-change-your-legal-name-and-gender-marker","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/lgbtq-law\/how-to-change-your-legal-name-and-gender-marker.html","title":{"rendered":"How To Change Your Legal Name and Gender Marker"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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How To Change Your Legal Name and Gender Marker<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Lark Lewis, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Bridget Molitor, JD<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n

Legally changing your name or gender marker usually involves filling out court forms, attending a brief hearing, and then updating your information with government agencies. Because each state has its own rules\u2014and federal rules for passports are different\u2014you\u2019ll need to follow the requirements that apply to your situation.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

There are several reasons you may want to legally change your name or gender marker. Maybe you’re in the process of a gender transition. Or maybe you’re transgender or non-conforming and want to be identified properly according to your gender identity. Whatever the reason, this overview will help you understand the steps to take to accomplish that goal. Keep reading to learn how to legally change your name and gender designation on important government documents.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Each state has varying requirements. If you’re not a U.S. citizen, there are different rules, and you’ll need to contact your local government office to determine what you need to do. Also, if you’re a minor<\/a>, you’ll need the help of at least one of your parents.<\/p>\n

If a judge questions the request, an agency refuses to update a record, or an employer doesn’t acknowledge the change, legal help is available. An attorney near you<\/a> can advocate for your rights and intervene on your behalf.<\/p>\n

Legal Name Changes<\/h2>\n

In most states, the first step to legally changing your name<\/a> is to obtain\u00a0the appropriate form, which is usually called a petition for change of name. A lawyer isn’t typically needed to navigate the name change process. You’ll likely have to pay a fee, though, when you submit your name change form to the court. In some states, you can even change your gender at the same time as you change your name.<\/p>\n

What Can You Change Your Name To?<\/h2>\n

In general, you can change your name to anything you want. You can’t change your name to avoid paying debts or to commit fraud, though. Also, you might need to work with a lawyer if you:<\/p>\n