Changing Your Name in Tennessee
How adults change their legal name in Tennessee: the court petition, publication, fees, and restoring a name after divorce.
Short answer: File a written petition, signed and verified by affidavit, in the circuit, probate or county court of the county where you live, stating your reasons. The court may order the change by an entry of record. Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 29-8-101 to 29-8-104
| Legal name change | File a written petition, signed and verified by affidavit, in the circuit, probate or county court of the county where you live, stating your reasons. The court may order the change by an entry of record. People convicted of first- or second-degree murder or a sex offense requiring registration cannot change their names; other felons must prove by clear and convincing evidence that the request is in good faith and not to defraud or harm anyone. The clerk's fees are the same as for similar services in other cases. |
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Where to get help in Tennessee
More Tennessee divorce & family law
- Getting a Marriage License in Tennessee
- Adopting a Child in Tennessee
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in Tennessee
- Establishing Paternity in Tennessee
- Child Custody Laws in Tennessee
- How Child Support Is Calculated in Tennessee
- Divorce Records in Tennessee
- Alimony and Spousal Support in Tennessee
- How to File for Divorce in Tennessee
- Legal Separation and Annulment in Tennessee
- All Tennessee divorce & family law rules
FAQ
How do you legally change your name in Tennessee?
File a written petition, signed and verified by affidavit, in the circuit, probate or county court of the county where you live, stating your reasons. The court may order the change by an entry of record. People convicted of first- or second-degree murder or a sex offense requiring registration cannot change their names; other felons must prove by clear and convincing evidence that the request is in good faith and not to defraud or harm anyone. The clerk's fees are the same as for similar services in other cases.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.