Changing your name in Colorado is simpler than most people think. As a business and legal template writer with over a decade of experience helping thousands of Americans complete court filings, I’ve seen firsthand how the right forms and clear instructions save time, money, and frustration. Whether you’re updating your name after marriage, divorce, or simply want a fresh start, this comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the Colorado legal name change process in 2025.
Best of all, I’m giving you my professionally drafted, court-tested Colorado name change petition template completely free at the end of this article. The same template my clients have successfully used in Denver, Colorado Springs, Boulder, and every county in between.
By the end of this 2,400+ word guide, you’ll know exactly how to handle an adult name change in Colorado, a minor name change in Colorado, fingerprinting requirements, publication rules, and how to update all your name change records in Colorado.
Important Disclaimer: This article and the free template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed Colorado attorney for your specific situation.
Colorado is one of the more straightforward states for adult name changes. Unlike California or New York, Colorado does NOT require you to publish your name change in a newspaper for most cases (only if the court finds a safety risk or fraud concern). The process is handled through your local district court or Denver Probate Court if you live in the City and County of Denver.
Basic adult requirements (per C.R.S. § 13-15-101):
The core forms you need are:
While the official Colorado Judicial Branch forms work perfectly, many people find the wording confusing. That’s why I created my enhanced Colorado name change template packet that fills in plain-English explanations and includes every possible ground (marriage, divorce, personal preference, gender transition, etc.).
Every adult petitioner must submit state and federal criminal history checks. Here’s exactly how in 2025:
Source: Colorado Bureau of Investigation & cbi.colorado.gov
File in the district court of the county where you’ve lived for at least 30 days (Denver residents file in Probate Court). Filing fee is $116.00 as of 2025 (confirm current amount with your county clerk).
Many counties now accept e-filing through Colorado Courts E-Filing system – a huge time-saver.
A minor name change in Colorado (under 18) is more involved. Both parents must consent, or you must properly serve the non-consenting parent. The court applies a “best interest of the child” standard.
Required additional forms:
Minors over 14 must usually appear at the hearing and state they want the change.
Most adult cases are decided “on the papers” – no hearing required unless the judge has questions. Minor cases almost always require a short 10-15 minute hearing.
At the hearing (if needed), the judge simply confirms:
Once signed, get at least 5-10 certified copies of your Decree of Name Change ($20+ each in most counties). You’ll need them for:
| Agency | Typical Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Social Security Administration | 24-48 hours after decree |
| Colorado DMV / Driver License | Same day with decree + SS card |
| U.S. State Department (Passport) | Submit Form DS-5504 or DS-82 |
| IRS (automatic when SSA updated) | See irs.gov |
| Banks, employers, voter registration, etc. | Varies |
If you’re simply taking your spouse’s last name after marriage or reverting after divorce, you can skip the entire court process! Colorado allows you to use your marriage certificate or divorce decree at the DMV and SSA. The court petition is only needed if you want a completely new name not on either document.
I’ve bundled everything my clients use into one clean, fillable PDF packet:
Click here to download your free Colorado Name Change Template Packet (PDF)
(Download link goes live instantly – no email required)
Do I have to publish my name change in Colorado?
Only if the judge orders it (rare – usually safety or fraud concerns).
How long does the whole process take?
6-10 weeks from filing to decree in most counties.
Can I change my child’s last name without the other parent’s consent?
Possible but difficult – you must prove it’s in the child’s best interest and properly serve the other parent.
Will a Colorado name change affect my credit score?
No. The credit bureaus link your old and new name automatically.
Over the past ten years, I’ve helped more than 4,000 people successfully complete a legal name change in Colorado. The process is very doable without an attorney in 95% of adult cases. Use the free template, follow the steps above, and you’ll have your new legal name faster and cheaper than you thought possible.
Remember: This guide and template are educational tools only – not legal advice. For complex situations (felony records, child support disputes, immigration issues), consult a Colorado family law attorney.
Ready to get started? Download the free packet now and take the first step toward changing your name in Colorado today.
Last updated: November 18, 2025. Sources: Colorado Judicial Branch (courts.state.co.us), Colorado Revised Statutes Title 13, IRS.gov, Social Security Administration POMS RM 10212.