Legally Changing Your Name
There are many reasons why a transgender person may want to change his or her name. From an emotional standpoint, a name change reflecting your gender can be a significant part of expressing your true identity. From a practical standpoint, a name or appearance inconsistent with what appears on common identification documents, such as a driver's license, may cause unnecessary confusion.
This section describes how to legally change your name, obtain a new driver's license and receive a new or revised birth certificate.
More information:
• Transgender People & Birth Certificates
• Transgender Name Changes
• Changing Your Driver's License
Important note:
Please keep in mind that the information provided by HRC is intended for educational purposes only and may or may not be valid in your state. We strongly recommend that you consult a local attorney with experience in transgender issues. It is also important that you understand that the information provided here in no way constitutes, and should not be relied upon, as legal advice.




