Fla. Stat. § 68.07
Legal Name Change
Whether after a divorce, for a child, or for personal reasons, a legal name change in Florida follows a defined court process. Here is what it involves.
Attorney-Reviewed Statute Resource
Reviewed by Joseph Grant, Family Law Attorney (Fla. Bar #97315).
Last reviewed: June 2026
The Process
Under § 68.07, changing your legal name generally requires filing a petition, submitting fingerprints for a state and national background check, and obtaining a court order. The court must be satisfied the change isn’t for an unlawful or fraudulent purpose (such as evading creditors).
The Governing Statute
Fla. Stat. § 68.07 — Change of Name
"A petition for change of name … shall be filed … and the petitioner must submit fingerprints for a state and national criminal history records check [before the change may be granted]."
Read the full statute on Online Sunshine →
Common Situations
Name Changes Often Arise With
Divorce: a spouse can usually restore a former name as part of the dissolution — no separate action needed.
Children: changing a minor’s name typically requires notice to both parents and a best-interest showing.
Marriage: taking a spouse’s name at marriage doesn’t require a court petition.
Children: changing a minor’s name typically requires notice to both parents and a best-interest showing.
Marriage: taking a spouse’s name at marriage doesn’t require a court petition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I legally change my name in Florida?
File a petition under § 68.07, submit fingerprints for a state and national background check, and obtain a court order. The court must be satisfied the change is not for a fraudulent or unlawful purpose. After marriage or in a divorce, simpler paths often apply.
Can I restore my maiden name in a Florida divorce?
Yes. A spouse can generally request restoration of a former or maiden name as part of the dissolution of marriage, without needing to file a separate name-change action.
Can I change my child’s name in Florida?
Yes, but changing a minor’s name typically requires notice to both parents and a showing that the change is in the child’s best interest. If a parent objects, the court decides.
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This page summarizes Fla. Stat. § 68.07 for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. Statutes change; while this page is reviewed by a licensed Florida attorney, always verify the current text on the official Online Sunshine source or consult an attorney about your specific situation. Serving Martin, St. Lucie, Palm Beach, Indian River, and Okeechobee Counties.