Name Change Overview 

The information contained here is intended to address the most frequently asked questions. It is not comprehensive and should not be construed as legal advice. Those in need of legal advice should consult an attorney.

Applications for Name Changes may be filed in the county where you reside. The process consists of completing a Petition for Name Change and an Order for Name Change. The original Petition is filed with the clerk in any district court division located within the county of your residence. Photo ID may be required.  If a sealed name change is required, the petition must be filed with the Superior Court.

Name Change fees vary depending upon the number of persons named on the Petition. The King County District Court fee for name changes is $150 which includes the $73 filing fee, a $10 administrative cost, a $62 recording cost per named individual and one certified copy.  Additional certified copies are $5 per copy.

Once the Petition has been completed, the case will be presented to a judge for approval and signature.

If you were born in Washington State and wish to change your birth certificate, you must send certified copies of all the paperwork to:

Department of Health
Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 9709
Olympia, WA 98507-9709

The Court will record your Name Change with the King County Recorder's Office. Only the Order needs to be recorded. Recording takes 6 to 8 weeks and a copy with the Recorder's Number will be returned to you.

Name Change Filing and Hearing Schedule

NOTE: This schedule is posted for informational purposes only and may not be accurate. Name Change Calendars may not be held during Jury Week and the schedules may be changed due to volume. All hearing dates are assigned by the court division only. The Name Change Days and Times listed below may be changed by the division at any time. Photo ID may be required.