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How to Change Your Name in Minnesota

Every Minnesota 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 Minnesota county

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

Aitkin County Anoka County Becker County Beltrami County Benton County Big Stone County Blue Earth County Brown County Carlton County Carver County Cass County Chippewa County Chisago County Clay County Clearwater County Cook County Cottonwood County Crow Wing County Dakota County Dodge County Douglas County Faribault County Fillmore County Freeborn County Goodhue County Grant County Hennepin County Houston County Hubbard County Isanti County Itasca County Jackson County Kanabec County Kandiyohi County Kittson County Koochiching County Lac qui Parle County Lake County Lake of the Woods County Le Sueur County Lincoln County Lyon County Mahnomen County Marshall County Martin County McLeod County Meeker County Mille Lacs County Morrison County Mower County Murray County Nicollet County Nobles County Norman County Olmsted County Otter Tail County Pennington County Pine County Pipestone County Polk County Pope County Ramsey County Red Lake County Redwood County Renville County Rice County Rock County Roseau County Scott County Sherburne County Sibley County St. Louis County Stearns County Steele County Stevens County Swift County Todd County Traverse County Wabasha County Wadena County Waseca County Washington County Watonwan County Wilkin County Winona County Wright County Yellow Medicine County

The Minnesota name-change steps

1. Certified copies. Get them from your county clerk (marriage) or the Court Administrator (divorce or court order).
2. Social Security. Update your SSA record first — it's free.
3. Minnesota DVS. 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 Minnesota?
Get certified copies of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, then update Social Security, your Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
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.