How to Legally Change Your Name in Texas (And Why It Matters Now More Than Ever)

Why Your Name Matters

Texas adult name change may become a hot topic soon. For many women—especially those who’ve married, divorced, or been adopted—the name on their government-issued ID might not match their birth certificate. That mismatch could soon do more than cause minor bureaucratic hassles. Under the proposed SAVE Act, voters would be required to present proof of citizenship that exactly matches their name across documents. For women, this disproportionately creates barriers to voting.

This guide walks you through how to legally change your name as an adult in Texas, so your identity documents match—and your right to vote is protected.

💬 “This isn’t just about paperwork. It’s about power.

It’s about claiming your identity and ensuring no one takes your voice away at the ballot box.”

Who Can Legally Change Their Name in Texas?

In Texas, adults can legally change their name if they meet the following basic requirements:

• You are 18 years or older
• You have lived in Texas and the county where you’re filing for at least 6 months
• You are not requesting the change to avoid debts, criminal charges, or sex offender registry
  
• You pass a criminal background check
  

If you have a criminal history, especially a felony conviction or are a registered sex offender, the court may deny your petition. However, some exceptions apply if you’ve completed probation, received a pardon, or can show the change is in the public interest.

Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Name in Texas as an Adult

Watch the Step-by-Step video

Step 1: Get the Right Forms

Visit TexasLawHelp.org and search for “name change.” Download the “I want to change my name – Adult” guide.

You’ll need:

• Petition to Change the Name of an Adult
  
• Order Granting Change of Name of an Adult
  
• Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs (if you’re low income)
  

These forms include fill-in-the-blank instructions and a helpful checklist.

Step 2: Fill Out the Petition

Here’s what the Petition includes:

• Current legal name, address, and contact info
  
• New name you want (e.g., your birth certificate name)
  
• Reason for the change (e.g., “I want to vote and need my documents to match my birth certificate”)
  
• Criminal history (must be complete and honest)
  
• All past names, aliases, nicknames (including previous married names)
  
• Social Security number, driver’s license info (last 10 years), and birth details
  

Attach:

• Two fingerprint cards
  
• Any supporting documents (e.g., proof of pardon if applicable)
  

💡 Tip: Clearly label all attachments with “Exhibit” at the top.

Step 3: File Your Petition With the Court

You must file in the county where you currently live, usually with the District Clerk’s Office or County Clerk’s Office. 

You can file:

• In person (bring the original and at least two copies)
  
• Electronically through eFileTexas.gov using a guided interview tool from TexasLawHelp.org
  

Expect to pay a filing fee (usually $250–$350). If you can’t afford it, submit the Statement of Inability to Afford Payment form.

Once filed, you’ll receive:

• A cause number (case number)
  
• Assigned court and judge
  
• File-stamped copy of your petition (you’ll need this for fingerprints)
  

Step 4: Get Fingerprinted

To complete your name change, Texas law requires a background check through the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and FBI.

1. Schedule a fingerprint appointment through IdentoGO
2. Select “Fingerprint Cards” (not digital)
   
3. Bring your file-stamped petition to the appointment
   
4. Cost:
   
   • Fingerprinting: ~$20
     
   • Background check fees: $27 ($15 to DPS, $12 to FBI via check or money order)
     

Mail your completed fingerprint card, background check fee, and file-stamped petition copy to:

Texas Department of Public Safety  

Central Cash Receiving  

P.O. Box 15999  

Austin, TX 78761-5999

DPS will send the results directly to the court—usually within 2–4 weeks.

Step 5: Set Your Court Hearing

After your background check is processed, call the court where you filed your petition. Ask:

• Have they received your background check?
  
• Do they require a hearing (many do)?
  
• Will the hearing be in person, by Zoom, or by submission?
  

If there’s a hearing, prepare to:

• Dress appropriately
  
• Be polite and clear
  
• Present your Order Granting Name Change form to the judge
  

TexasLawHelp provides sample testimony to help you prepare what to say under oath.

Step 6: Finalize the Order

If the judge approves your name change, they’ll sign the Order Granting Name Change. The clerk will file it in your case record.

✅ Next Step: Request certified copies of the signed order. You’ll need these to update your identity documents. Get at least 2–3 certified copies (expect a small fee).

Updating Your Identity Documents After Adult Name Change

Once your name is officially changed, here’s where to update it:

• Social Security Administration
  
• Texas Driver’s License / ID
  
• Passport
  
• Voter Registration
  Go to VoteTexas.gov → “Update Your Voter Registration”
  

💡 Some agencies may require certified copies of your name change order, so keep them handy.

Common Questions

Can I change my name if I’m still married?

Yes. You do not need your spouse’s permission to change your name.

Can I change my name after divorce if I forgot to put it in my decree?

Yes. This legal process is available even if your divorce decree didn’t address your name.

Will my children’s names change too?

No. This process changes only your name. Children’s names must be changed through a separate court process.

What if I don’t have a Social Security number?

Check the box indicating that in your petition. It won’t disqualify you, but you’ll need to provide other ID details.

Why Texas Adult Name Change Matters for Voting Rights

Under the proposed SAVE Act, voters may be required to provide proof of citizenship with matching names across documents. For many women, this presents a serious risk of disenfranchisement—especially those who:

• Changed their name after marriage or divorce
  
• Use a professional name or nickname
  
• Have inconsistent name records due to clerical errors
  

Taking this step now not only ensures consistency in your records, it protects your right to vote.

Final Thoughts

Changing your name in Texas as an adult is doable—even on your own—and it’s one powerful way to take control of your legal identity. Whether you’re reclaiming a birth name, aligning documents to vote, or simply taking charge of your future, this process is your legal right.

If you need support or get stuck, our team at Alexandra Geczi PLLC is here for you. We specialize in empowering women to take control of their lives and protect their rights—inside and outside the courtroom.

📞 Contact us for guidance or representation.