Changing Your Name in Arizona
Last Updated April 2026
How much will this cost?
There are two court fees for changing your name – the first is the filing fee of $337.00. Once your Order Changing Name has been signed by the Superior Court commissioner, there is a $31 fee to obtain a certified copy of the order. It is advisable to purchase more than one copy because they can sometimes be lost by the various agencies and companies you will need to submit it to.
What if I can't afford the filing fee right now?
You can apply for a deferral of fees (I would advise waiting until the week of the clinic to apply). If granted, this will allow you to pay the fee over time. There is a $30 surcharge for this which will bring the total to $363.00. To apply for a deferral, clickΒ hereΒ and choose “Civil (CV)” for the type of case you will be filing.
Why do I need a certified copy of my name change order?
You will need it to officially change your name with government agencies such as Social Security, the DMV, Department of State (for passports), and Vital Records for your birth certificate (should you wish to amend that). Your bank will most likely also require a certified copy to change the records on your accounts.
How long will it take?
After your case has been filed, there is about a 4 to 6 week wait until your hearing.
Will I actually have to go to court?
Not at all. I will file your petition, and if you wish, will obtain your certified copy after your hearing and mail it to you (will need an extra $1.50 for postage). Also, your hearing will be virtual, via Microsoft Teams – no court appearance will be required.
How do I change my gender marker on my state ID or drivers license?
This lies with the individual agencies that you wish to change your gender marker with. Social Security will do so on your attestation alone; the Arizona MVD requires a letter from a medical doctor.
Can I change the gender markο»Ώer on my birth certificate?
Requirements vary from state to state, depending on where you were born. Some states will change your gender marker merely with a signed affidavit from you. Others will require surgery, and a small handful of states will not change it at all.
What if I am married or have kids under 18?
If you are married and/or are the natural parent of a child under 18, you will need the consent of your spouse and/or the child’s other natural parent. I can prepare the necessary document that will need to be signed and notarized by the other party
Can I change my child's name?
Yes – as long as both parents consent to it. In addition, if your child is 14 or older, they must consent to it as well.
Will I need to provide any documents to the Court myself?
Yes. If you wish to amend your birth certificate, you must provide aΒ scanned (photos are not acceptable) copy of your birth certificate. In addition, you must provide a photo of your ID – both front and back.