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How to Change Your Name in Alabama

Every Alabama county handles name changes a little differently — different clerk offices, fees, and processing times. Below are detailed, county-specific guides plus the steps that apply statewide.

Pick your Alabama county

Every Alabama county is covered. Pick yours for the offices, fees and forms that apply where you live.

Autauga County Baldwin County Barbour County Bibb County Blount County Bullock County Butler County Calhoun County Chambers County Cherokee County Chilton County Choctaw County Clarke County Clay County Cleburne County Coffee County Colbert County Conecuh County Coosa County Covington County Crenshaw County Cullman County Dale County Dallas County DeKalb County Elmore County Escambia County Etowah County Fayette County Franklin County Geneva County Greene County Hale County Henry County Houston County Jackson County Jefferson County Lamar County Lauderdale County Lawrence County Lee County Limestone County Lowndes County Macon County Madison County Marengo County Marion County Marshall County Mobile County Monroe County Montgomery County Morgan County Perry County Pickens County Pike County Randolph County Russell County Shelby County St. Clair County Sumter County Talladega County Tallapoosa County Tuscaloosa County Walker County Washington County Wilcox County Winston County

The Alabama name-change steps

1. Certified copies. Get them from your county clerk (marriage) or the Probate Judge (divorce or court order).
2. Social Security. Update your SSA record first — it's free.
3. Alabama ALEA. Reissue your license with your new name.
4. Passport. Submit the correct form with a certified copy.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I change my name in Alabama?
Get certified copies of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, then update Social Security, your Alabama driver's license, and your passport in that order. Exact offices and fees vary by county — pick your county below.
How long does a name change take in Alabama?
A marriage or divorce name change usually takes a few weeks once you have certified copies. A court-order name change takes longer because of the petition and hearing.