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How to Change Your Name in Ohio

Every Ohio 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 Ohio county

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

Adams County Allen County Ashland County Ashtabula County Athens County Auglaize County Belmont County Brown County Butler County Carroll County Champaign County Clark County Clermont County Clinton County Columbiana County Coshocton County Crawford County Cuyahoga County Darke County Defiance County Delaware County Erie County Fairfield County Fayette County Franklin County Fulton County Gallia County Geauga County Greene County Guernsey County Hamilton County Hancock County Hardin County Harrison County Henry County Highland County Hocking County Holmes County Huron County Jackson County Jefferson County Knox County Lake County Lawrence County Licking County Logan County Lorain County Lucas County Madison County Mahoning County Marion County Medina County Meigs County Mercer County Miami County Monroe County Montgomery County Morgan County Morrow County Muskingum County Noble County Ottawa County Paulding County Perry County Pickaway County Pike County Portage County Preble County Putnam County Richland County Ross County Sandusky County Scioto County Seneca County Shelby County Stark County Summit County Trumbull County Tuscarawas County Union County Van Wert County Vinton County Warren County Washington County Wayne County Williams County Wood County Wyandot County

The Ohio name-change steps

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