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How to Change Your Name in California
Every California 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 California county
Every California county is covered. Pick yours for the offices, fees and forms that apply where you live.
Alameda County
Alpine County
Amador County
Butte County
Calaveras County
Colusa County
Contra Costa County
Del Norte County
El Dorado County
Fresno County
Glenn County
Humboldt County
Imperial County
Inyo County
Kern County
Kings County
Lake County
Lassen County
Los Angeles County
Madera County
Marin County
Mariposa County
Mendocino County
Merced County
Modoc County
Mono County
Monterey County
Napa County
Nevada County
Orange County
Placer County
Plumas County
Riverside County
Sacramento County
San Benito County
San Bernardino County
San Diego County
San Francisco County
San Joaquin County
San Luis Obispo County
San Mateo County
Santa Barbara County
Santa Clara County
Santa Cruz County
Shasta County
Sierra County
Siskiyou County
Solano County
Sonoma County
Stanislaus County
Sutter County
Tehama County
Trinity County
Tulare County
Tuolumne County
Ventura County
Yolo County
Yuba County
The California name-change steps
1. Certified copies. Get them from your county clerk (marriage) or the Superior Court, Civil Division (divorce or court order).
2. Social Security. Update your SSA record first — it's free.
3. California DMV. Reissue your license with your new name.
4. Passport. Submit the correct form with a certified copy.
Get your exact California county guide
Personalized to your county and reason — offices, fees, forms, clickable links, and a fillable tracker, emailed straight to you.
Get my guide → $24.99Frequently asked questions
- How do I change my name in California?
- Get certified copies of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, then update Social Security, your California 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 California?
- 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.