Requirements for a Name Change in Oklahoma

Changing your name in Oklahoma involves a legal process that requires adherence to specific statutes and procedures. For professional legal advice and support with the name change process, feel free to contact our office. We can prepare the documents for you and you can take it from there, OR we can handle everything from start to finish. We’re here to help you navigate through each step smoothly.

Here is an overview of some of the requirements for an Oklahoma name change.

Residency: Any natural person who has been domiciled in Oklahoma or residing on a military reservation in the state for more than 30 days, and has been an actual resident of the county or military reservation for more than 30 days preceding the filing, may petition for a name change. However, individuals required to register as sex offenders are not eligible to petition for a name change. If the petitioner is a minor, the action can be brought by a guardian or next friend (12 O.S. § 1631).
Petition: The petition must be verified and include:
- The name and address of the petitioner.
- Facts regarding domicile and residence.
- Date and place of birth.
- Birth certificate number and place of registration, if applicable.
- The desired new name.
- A clear and concise statement of the reasons for the name change.
- A positive statement that the change is not sought for any illegal or fraudulent purpose, or to delay or hinder creditors (12 O.S. § 1632).
Notice: Notice of the petition filing must be given by publishing it one time at least 10 days prior to the hearing date in a local newspaper authorized to publish legal notices. The notice must include the case style and number, the time, date, and place of the hearing, and inform that any person may file a written protest before the hearing date. The court may waive the publication requirement for good cause, such as cases involving domestic violence (12 O.S. § 1633).
Hearing: A court hearing will be scheduled where the petitioner must present their case. The judge will review the petition and any objections. If the judge finds the petition to be free of false material allegations and not for fraudulent purposes, they will grant the name change.
Order: If the judge approves the petition, they will issue an order legally changing the name. The petitioner will need to obtain certified copies of this order to update their name with various agencies and institutions.