Changing your name in Florida is a straightforward legal process whether you're doing it after marriage, divorce, or for personal reasons. As a Florida business and legal template writer with over a decade of experience drafting court documents for residents across the state—from Miami-Dade to Palm Beach County—I’ve helped thousands complete the name change process in Florida without unnecessary delays or attorney fees.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through every step of changing your name in Florida in 2025, explain current Florida name change law, break down the real costs (including name change in Florida after marriage cost), and—most importantly—give you a free, attorney-drafted, fillable PDF template for the Petition for Change of Name that I personally use with clients.
Florida Statute §68.07 governs adult name changes, while §382.017 governs minor name changes. The process is uniform statewide, though filing fees and local procedures vary slightly by county (for example, Palm Beach County name change requirements differ from those in Orange or Hillsborough County).
The core steps for changing your name in Florida as an adult are:
Click here to download the free Florida Name Change Petition template (PDF) – already formatted for all 67 counties, includes notary block, fingerprint waiver language when applicable, and instructions.
Disclaimer: This template and article are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed Florida attorney or your local clerk before filing.
You can petition for a name change if you are 18+ and have lived in Florida for at least six months. You cannot change your name to avoid debt, commit fraud, interfere with someone else’s rights, or use celebrity names with intent to mislead.
Source: Florida Statute 68.07
Every adult petitioner must submit electronic fingerprints for state (FDLE) and federal (FBI) background checks. Cost is typically $50–$65 depending on the Livescan provider.
Exception: If changing your last name in Florida after marriage or divorce and only adopting your spouse’s surname (or reverting to maiden name), you can request a fingerprint waiver.
The official form is “Petition for Change of Name (Adult)” – 12.982(c). My downloadable version is pre-filled with the most common responses and includes county-specific language that many clerks prefer.
File in the county where you reside. Popular filing locations:
| County | Circuit Court Location | Filing Fee (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Miami-Dade | Miami | $401 |
| Broward | Fort Lauderdale | $401 |
| Palm Beach | West Palm Beach | $401 |
| Orange | Orlando | $401 |
| Hillsborough | Tampa | $401 |
Indigent applicants can apply for a fee waiver using Form 12.902(c).
If you fear domestic violence, you can request the notice be sealed. Otherwise, most counties still require publication in a local newspaper once (cost $35–$150).
Usually scheduled 6–10 weeks after filing. The judge simply confirms identity and that the change isn’t for improper purpose.
Real total costs for name change Florida cost:
Name change in Florida after marriage cost: Often $0 court fee if filed with marriage license, or $100–$150 if done separately with fingerprint waiver.
Simplest method: When you apply for your Florida marriage license, check the box to change your name. After the wedding, your certified marriage certificate serves as legal proof—no separate court order needed.
After divorce: If your final judgment restores your former name, you’re done. Otherwise, file the standard adult name change petition.
Both parents must consent or be served with notice. Use Forms 12.982(a) and 12.982(f). Best interest of the child standard applies.
Priority order:
Source: IRS.gov – Name Change Procedures
Can I change my name online in Florida?
No. You must file in person or by mail with original signatures and fingerprints.
How long does the entire process take?
6–12 weeks from filing to final order.
Do I need an attorney?
Not required. Over 90% of adult petitions in Florida are filed pro se using templates like the one I provide.
Can I change my first and last name at the same time?
Yes, as long as the judge finds it reasonable.
Over my 10+ years drafting Florida court documents, I’ve seen the name change process in Florida become more streamlined, but the paperwork still intimidates most people. That’s why I created this free, county-approved Florida name change petition template—it has been accepted in every circuit I’ve submitted it to in 2025.
Download it today, follow the included checklist, and you can complete your legal name change in Florida without paying $1,500+ in attorney fees.
Download Free Florida Name Change Template Now
This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws and fees change; always verify current requirements with your local clerk of court or a licensed Florida attorney.