Name Change
Instructions for Name Change Procedure – Adult
- Contact the Virginia State Police to have a background check performed.
- Review the Application Instructions and complete the Application for Change of Name form prior to signing before a notary or the Circuit Court Clerk/Deputy Clerk.
- If you have you previously changed your name either by a prior application or by marriage, you must provide a court order or other documentation that indicate previous names.
- Filing Fee of $39 must be paid at the time of filing. *Please see our payment policy.
- Filings may be submitted in person or by mail.
- Normal processing times will vary between two and four weeks. Once the judge signs the order, we will mail a certified copy of the order to you.
- This order will enable you to make any necessary changes. (i.e. DMV, Bank Accounts, Etc.)
- If you would like to receive a new Birth Certificate, please contact the Division of Vital Records, P. O. Box 1000, Richmond, VA 23218-1000.
Instructions for Name Change Procedure – Minor *Petitioners who desire to change the name of their child or ward must obtain consent of both parents to change a child’s name.
- Review the Application Instructions and complete the Application for Change of Name (Minor) form prior to signing before a notary or the Circuit Court Clerk/Deputy Clerk.
- Both parents must sign the application in front of a notary or the Circuit Court Clerk/Deputy Clerk.
- Provide a copy of the parent’s driver’s licenses in the current name.
- Filing Fee of $39 must be paid at the time of filing. *Please see our payment policy.
- Filings may be submitted in person or by mail.
- Normal processing times will vary between two and four weeks. Once the judge signs the order, we will mail a certified copy of the order to you.
- This order will enable you to make any necessary changes. (i.e. DMV, Bank Accounts, Etc.)
- If you would like to receive a new Birth Certificate, please contact the Division of Vital Records, P. O. Box 1000, Richmond, VA 23218-1000