Download and read the complete set of Instructions for Name Change (Adult or Minor).
STEP 1:
If you are eligible to apply for a name change in the State of Minnesota, you must file an "Application" and other forms with the District Court in the county where you live. Depending on your situation, you may also have to notify third-parties.
STEP 2:
File your forms with Court Administration, including the Criminal History Check Release form. You will need to pay a filing fee or request a Fee Waiver based on low income. When you file the forms with the court, the court administrator will give you a hearing date and time for when you must appear before a judge or will tell you how to schedule your hearing. NOTE: If you are asking to change the name of a minor, you must give notice of the hearing date and time to the non-applicant parent(s). Save that date on your calendar. For information on how to prepare for a hearing, see Tips for Representing Yourself in Court.
STEP 3:
Go to court for the hearing. The applicant must bring two witnesses to appear in court who can testify about the applicant's identity. If the application for a name change is made on behalf of a minor (under the age of 18), the minor must be present at their court hearing.
STEP 4:
If the judge approves the Application, the judge will sign an Order Granting Name Change. The Order will be entered into the court's record and you may get certified copies of the Order from the court administrator for a fee. NOTE: You will need certified copies of the Order to change important documents such as a driver's license, a Social Security card, and bank accounts. It is a good idea to keep at least one certified copy of the name change order with your personal records.
STEP 5:
The judge may order you to notify certain public agencies, officials, or other third-parties about your new legal name, or you may want to do so for other purposes. See the What to Do After a Name Change tab for more information on notifying others about a name change.