Free Printable California Name Change Petition & Requirements
Legally change your name through the court
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PETITION FOR NAME CHANGE State of California IN THE [ ] DISTRICT [ ] SUPERIOR [ ] CIRCUIT COURT OF [COUNTY] COUNTY, CALIFORNIA Case No.: [TO BE ASSIGNED] PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME Petitioner [CURRENT LEGAL NAME] respectfully states: 1. Petitioner resides at [ADDRESS], [COUNTY] County, California CA. 2. Petitioner was born on [DOB] in [CITY, STATE]. 3. Petitioner's current legal name is: [CURRENT LEGAL NAME] 4. Petitioner requests the name be changed to: [NEW DESIRED NAME] 5. Reason for name change: [ ] Marriage [ ] Divorce [ ] Personal preference [ ] Other: [EXPLAIN] 6. Petitioner is not seeking a name change to defraud creditors or for any illegal purpose. 7. Petitioner [ ] has [ ] has not been convicted of a felony. 8. Petitioner [ ] is [ ] is not a registered sex offender. WHEREFORE, Petitioner requests this Court grant the name change in accordance with California law (CA Statutes). PETITIONER SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____ Print Name: _____________________ VERIFICATION: I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Signature: _____________________ DATE: _____
California Name Change Petition Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Name Change Petition is legally valid in California.
California Notarization
While notarization may not be required in California, it is recommended. Fees range from $15.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In California, a 7.25% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. California law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
California Filing Deadlines
Check California deadlines for filing. The state filing fee is $15. Late filing may result in penalties.
Name Change Petition Costs in California
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | California standard rate: $15 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State filing: $15 |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in California |
| Sales Tax | 7.25% | California base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 1 witness | Single witness sufficient |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
FAQ: Name Change Petition in California
Is a Name Change Petition required in California?
Yes, in California, a Name Change Petition is required for most transactions of this type. Under California State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Name Change Petition may result in legal complications.
Does a Name Change Petition need to be notarized in California?
Notarization requirements in California (CA) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $15. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.
What are the tax implications of a Name Change Petition in California?
California has a base sales tax rate of 7.25%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Name Change Petition, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a California tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Jennifer Rodriguez, J.D.
Estate Planning Attorney
Licensed in 5 states, 12+ years experience
Focuses on wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
This Name Change Petition template for California has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Where to File Your Name Change Petition in California
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Name Change Petition.
LA County Clerk
Los Angeles
12400 Imperial Hwy, Norwalk, CA 90650
SF County Clerk
San Francisco
1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Pl, SF, CA 94102
San Diego County Clerk
San Diego
1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
Sacramento County Clerk
Sacramento
600 8th St, Sacramento, CA 95814
California Name Change Petition Legal Guide
This legally binding document in California serves as official proof of transaction and is recognized by courts and government agencies.
Under California State Code, residents of California must ensure this Name Change Petition complies with all state requirements. The current sales tax rate is 7.25%, and notarization costs between $15. One witness is required in CA.
Ensure your transaction is legally sound in California with this expertly crafted, state-compliant template.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
California attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with CA law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when California law changes
How California Courts View This Document
California courts apply CA statutory standards when evaluating a Name Change Petition. Judges look for: clear language, proper identification of parties, lawful purpose, and correct execution formalities. Meeting these standards ensures your document will be upheld if ever challenged.
Completing Your Name Change Petition
The process in California is straightforward but detail-oriented. Begin with the header information, proceed through each section methodically, and ensure all CA-required fields are completed. California courts take document completeness seriously — missing information can delay or invalidate your filing.
California Statutory Requirements
The CA legislature has established specific guidelines for name change petition documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
California courts apply CA statutory standards when evaluating a Name Change Petition. Judges look for: clear language, proper identification of parties, lawful purpose, and correct execution formalities. Meeting these standards ensures your document will be upheld if ever challenged.
Completing Your Name Change Petition
The process in California is straightforward but detail-oriented. Begin with the header information, proceed through each section methodically, and ensure all CA-required fields are completed. California courts take document completeness seriously — missing information can delay or invalidate your filing.
California Statutory Requirements
The CA legislature has established specific guidelines for name change petition documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
The CA legislature has established specific guidelines for name change petition documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
Other Forms in California
Name Change Petition in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Name Change Petition
- State
- California (CA)
- Category
- Family
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 7.25%
- Notary Fee
- $15
California Legal Requirements
Governing Statute:
State Law
- ✓Consult with a licensed attorney for specific requirements
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in California may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.