Change Your Name in Florida, USA Step by Step Guide with costs
How to Change Your Name in Florida, USA (Step-by-Step Guide)
Changing your legal name in Florida does not always require hiring a lawyer. Many Florida residents successfully complete the name change process on their own by carefully following the court’s procedures, submitting the correct forms, and paying the required fees. While the process may seem overwhelming at first, understanding each step makes it much more manageable.
This guide explains how to legally change your name in Florida without a lawyer, including court requirements, filing fees, fingerprint checks, timelines, and common Florida-specific mistakes to avoid.
Understanding Name Change Laws in Florida
In Florida, adult name changes are handled through the Circuit Court in the county where you live. The court reviews your request to ensure that the name change is for a lawful purpose and not intended to commit fraud, avoid debts, or mislead others.
Florida law requires additional identity verification compared to some other states, which is why background checks and fingerprints are a standard part of the process.
Who Can Change Their Name in Florida?
You can file a name change petition in Florida if:
You are 18 years or older
You are a resident of Florida
You are not requesting the change for illegal or fraudulent reasons
You are willing to complete a fingerprint-based background check
If you meet these conditions, you can proceed without legal representation.
Which Court Handles Name Changes in Florida?
All adult name change cases in Florida are filed in the Circuit Court of your county of residence.
For example:
Miami-Dade residents file in Miami-Dade Circuit Court
Orange County residents file in Orange County Circuit Court
Hillsborough residents file in Hillsborough Circuit Court
Each county follows Florida state law but may have small administrative differences.
Forms Required for a Florida Name Change
Florida courts require specific standardized forms. The most important ones include:
1. Petition for Change of Name (Adult)
This form states:
Your current legal name
The new name you want
Your reason for the change
Confirmation that the request is not for illegal purposes
2. Civil Cover Sheet
Provides basic case information to the clerk.
3. Fingerprints for Criminal History Records Check
Florida law requires a fingerprint background check through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
4. Final Judgment of Change of Name (Proposed)
This is the document the judge signs if your request is approved.
Some counties may request additional local forms.
Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Name in Florida Without a Lawyer
Step 1: Complete the Required Forms
Fill out all forms carefully. Any missing or incorrect information can delay your case.
💡 Tip: Use your exact legal name everywhere—no abbreviations.
Step 2: Get Fingerprinted
Florida requires LiveScan fingerprinting.
Visit an FDLE-approved LiveScan provider
Select the name change background check option
Your fingerprints are sent electronically to FDLE
🔍 Fingerprint Cost
Typically $40 – $60, depending on the provider
This step is mandatory and often causes delays if skipped.
Step 3: File Your Case with the Circuit Court
Submit your completed forms to the clerk of the Circuit Court in your county.
🧾 Filing Fee
$401 (standard Florida filing fee)
💡 If you cannot afford the fee, you may apply for a fee waiver by submitting an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status.
Step 4: Wait for Background Check Results
FDLE sends the criminal history report directly to the court.
⏳ This usually takes 1–3 weeks.
The judge will review your background along with your petition.
Step 5: Court Hearing (If Required)
Some Florida judges approve name changes without a hearing, while others require a brief hearing.
If scheduled:
Dress professionally
Answer questions honestly
Be prepared to explain why you want the name change
Most hearings last only a few minutes.
Step 6: Receive the Final Judgment
If approved, the judge signs the Final Judgment of Change of Name.
This document legally changes your name.
Step 7: Get Certified Copies
Request certified copies from the clerk.
📄 Cost:
Usually $1–$2 per page
Certification fee varies by county
You will need these copies to update your records.
Total Cost Breakdown (Florida Name Change)
Expense
Estimated Cost
Circuit Court filing fee
$401
Fingerprinting (FDLE)
$40 – $60
Certified copies
$10 – $25
Notary fees
$5 – $20
Driver’s license update
~$25
Passport update (optional)
~$130
👉 Estimated Total:
$480 – $650 (without a lawyer)
How Long Does It Take in Florida?
Fingerprint processing: 1–3 weeks
Court review: 2–6 weeks
Total time: 4–10 weeks (average)
Timelines vary by county and court workload.
Common Florida-Specific Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Skipping Fingerprinting
Florida strictly enforces background checks. Missing this step will stop your case.
❌ Using the Wrong LiveScan Code
Using an incorrect code sends fingerprints to the wrong agency.
❌ Filing in the Wrong County
You must file only in your county of residence.
❌ Not Ordering Enough Certified Copies
You will need multiple copies for Social Security, DMV, banks, and employers.
❌ Assuming No Hearing Is Required
Always check your case status—some judges require hearings.
Updating Your Records After Approval
Once your name is legally changed, update:
Social Security Administration
Florida Driver License / ID
Passport
Bank accounts
Employer records
Insurance providers
Each agency may require a certified court order.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is fingerprinting mandatory in Florida?
Yes. Florida requires fingerprint-based background checks for adult name changes.
2. Can I change my name in Florida without going to court?
No. A court order is required for all adult legal name changes.
3. Can a criminal record prevent a name change?
Not always, but the judge will review your background carefully.
4. Do I need to publish my name change in a newspaper?
Florida generally does not require publication for adult name changes.
5. Can I represent myself without a lawyer?
Yes. Many Florida residents successfully complete the process without legal representation.
Final Thoughts
Changing your name in Florida without a lawyer is completely possible if you follow the correct steps, prepare for fingerprinting, and understand the court process. While the fees are higher than in some states, the process is straightforward when done carefully.
Taking time to prepare your documents and understand county-specific procedures can save weeks of delay.
