To legally change your name and gender marker in North Carolina, you must follow separate processes for your name and each document’s gender marker. A court-ordered name change does not automatically update your identification. This guide explains the name change process, requirements for updating state documents, and current restrictions on passport sex markers.
Legal Reasons for a Name Change in North Carolina
Our state makes allowances for a name change for:
- Marriage
- Divorce
- Adoption
- Naturalization as a citizen
- Other good causes (reasons can include that you don’t identify with the gender assigned at birth, or other case-by-case reasons)
Trans, GNC, and non-binary individuals often face misunderstanding and outright discrimination when expressing their authentic gender. When your identification documents do not match your gender expression or identity, others may mistrust your intentions and you can be the target of harassment or worse.
It can be problematic to present your ID if your appearance does not match the gender marker on your license. Many employees may make ignorant comments or simply state that you don’t look like your ID. Even merely buying alcohol can cause a misunderstanding if your name is typically associated with a different gender than your gender presentation.
Because misunderstandings and discrimination occur, changing your name and correcting your gender marker can help you live your life authentically with less anxiety and stress.
How to Legally Change Your Name and Gender
You can start changing your name by giving 10 days’ notice of your name change application by publication at the courthouse.
However, the state will waive the need to publicize your change for 10 days if you can provide evidence that you are a victim of domestic violence, sexual offense, or stalking. You can prove this with law enforcement, court, or other government records. You can also verify you’re facing domestic violence with documentation from an affiliated program of the Domestic Violence Center Fund.
Next Step in a Name Change
Your next step is to file a petition at the county’s superior court clerk where you live. However, there are many steps you have to go through in preparation to file the petition. You’ll also need to gather and provide:
- Proof of good character by at least two citizens of the county who know your standing in the community
- Results of a state and national criminal history record check conducted within 90 days of the date of application. You will have to first obtain fingerprints to request these criminal history reports.
- A sworn statement that you are a bona fide resident of the county and proof of residency (such as a government ID or lease)
- A sworn statement about whether you have outstanding tax or child support obligations
- Any other information that the clerk determines is necessary for the complete review of the name change application.
In your application, you’ll need to give
- your current legal name
- county and date of birth
- full name of your parents as shown on your birth certificate
- the name you want
- your reasons for wanting the name change
- whether you legally changed your name in the past
After filing, you can expect to receive your Order and Certificate of Name Change anywhere from a couple of days to 6-8 weeks later, depending on the county.
Name Changes for Minors
It’s not unusual for teenagers to discover that the name or gender given at birth is incorrect for their individual gender identity. With parental consent, minors can lawfully modify their names before they turn 18 years old. Depending on age, it’s different for those under 16 years old than for an individual between 16 and 18 years old.
However, if only one parent is consenting or the other parent has “abandoned” the child, it may be more legally complicated, although not impossible. If you are a minor or a parent assisting your child in obtaining a name change, we strongly advise that you contact the Scharff Law Firm for guidance.
Finalizing Your Name Change & Gender Marker With NC DMV
After you obtain the legal name change order, you will need to provide the order to the DMV to get the correct name on your license.
When you go to the DMV to change your name with the court order, you can also fill out and submit a “Sex Designation Form” to request an amended driver’s license with the correct gender identity marker.
You’ll also want to give your new name to the Social Security Administration, banks, utilities, and other companies where you have accounts. It’s essential to start signing with your new name for official signatures once your name change is complete.
Birth Certificate Name Changes
Once you have your name change court order, the next step is to file to change your name with NC Vital Records on your birth certificate. You will have to submit an application, amendment processing fee, and copy of your name change order.
Correcting Your Birth Certificate Gender Marker
North Carolina used to limit the ability to correct the gender marker on your birth certificate to people who have had “sex reassignment surgery.”
However, you can now apply for a gender correction to your birth certificate by completing the NC Department of Health and Human Services Birth Certificate Modifications Form. In addition to the form, you’ll need to send the required supporting documents and a certified check or money order for $39 payable to N.C. Vital Records.
If you can’t supply the required evidence or identity to support your correction request and don’t want to deal with the court, your attorney can help you gather the supporting documents. Whether you’re unsure where to find them or how to obtain them, your attorney will understand the process and how to help.
Correcting Gender Marker on Passports
In June 2021, the State Department announced that it would no longer require passport applicants to submit a medical certification to change the gender marker on their passports. Transgender individuals can submit a passport application with the chosen gender marker selected. As of April 11, 2022, applicants can also choose an “X” gender marker on their passport. Applicants can refer to the State Department’s website for more information on correcting their gender marker.
Scharff Law Firm Can Help
The Scharff Law Firm has successfully helped many individuals in North Carolina change their names and gender markers, including more complicated cases for minors and second name changes. As a queer attorney, the owner of Scharff Law Firm, Amily McCool, is passionate about assisting others in the community with changing their name and correcting their gender marker to help them more fully live authentic lives. We understand the process and can help you navigate the legal system. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Sources:
- https://www.ncleg.net/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/PDF/ByChapter/Chapter_101.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Changing Your Name Separate From Changing Your Gender Marker?
Yes. A legal name change and a gender marker update are separate processes. A name change order does not automatically change the gender marker on your driver’s license, birth certificate, or passport. Each issuing agency has its own requirements.
Do You Need to Post Public Notice Before Changing Your Name in NC?
No. North Carolina removed the public notice requirement for name change applications filed on or after December 1, 2025. You no longer need to post a ten-day notice at the courthouse before applying.
What Documents Do Adults Need for a Legal Name Change in NC?
Adults generally need a completed petition, proof of good character from two county residents, and state and national criminal background checks completed within 90 days of applying. Required sworn statements cover county residency and outstanding tax or child support obligations. The clerk can request additional information.
Can a Minor Legally Change Their Name in North Carolina?
Yes. A parent or qualifying guardian can apply for a minor’s name change. Both living parents generally must consent, with exceptions involving abandonment or certain criminal convictions against the child or a sibling. Character references and criminal background checks are not required for children under 16.
Can You Choose an X Gender Marker on a New U.S. Passport?
No. Under the current State Department policy, newly issued U.S. passports have an M or F sex marker matching the applicant’s sex at birth. The earlier policy allowing applicants to select an X marker or a marker matching their gender identity is no longer in effect.
