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How to Change Your Name in New York

Every New York 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 New York county

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

Albany County Allegany County Brooklyn Borough Broome County Cattaraugus County Cayuga County Chautauqua County Chemung County Chenango County Clinton County Columbia County Cortland County Delaware County Dutchess County Erie County Essex County Franklin County Fulton County Genesee County Greene County Hamilton County Herkimer County Jefferson County Lewis County Livingston County Madison County Manhattan Borough Monroe County Montgomery County Nassau County Niagara County Oneida County Onondaga County Ontario County Orange County Orleans County Oswego County Otsego County Putnam County Queens County Rensselaer County Rockland County Saratoga County Schenectady County Schoharie County Schuyler County Seneca County St. Lawrence County Staten Island Borough Steuben County Suffolk County Sullivan County Tioga County Tompkins County Ulster County Warren County Washington County Wayne County Westchester County Wyoming County Yates County the Bronx Borough

The New York name-change steps

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