Changing Your Name
Fam. Code 45.103 — ordered when it benefits the petitioner and the public
A Texas adult files a petition to change their name in the county where they live. The petition is verified and gives the present name and residence, the name wanted, the reason, whether the petitioner has a final felony conviction or must register as a sex offender, and a full set of fingerprints on an approved card.
It also lists identifying details, including any driver's license number issued in the 10 years before the petition, and any charge above a Class C misdemeanor, or explains why something is left out. A participant in the attorney general's address confidentiality program need not give a street address or a reason.
In the petitioner's interest and the public's. The court orders the change when it is in the interest or to the benefit of the petitioner and in the interest of the public, for anyone without a final felony conviction who is not required to register.
A person with a final felony conviction may get a change if, besides that, two years have passed since discharge or completion of community supervision, or they were pardoned, or the new name is the primary name in their criminal history record. A person required to register also has to show they notified local law enforcement of the proposed change.
Sources for this section (3)
- Fam. Code 45.101 — Who may file a petition to change an adult's name; venue
- Fam. Code 45.102 — Requirements of the petition
- Fam. Code 45.103 — Order changing the name
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Texas attorney.