Changing your last name in Hawaii is a straightforward process whether you're doing it after marriage, divorce, or simply because you want a fresh start. As someone who has drafted hundreds of name change petitions for clients across the United States over the past decade, I’ve seen firsthand how proper preparation makes all the difference in getting your petition approved quickly by Hawaii’s family courts.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to change last name in Hawaii in 2025, including the exact forms you need, filing fees, court procedures, and what to do after your name change is granted. Best of all, I’m providing a free downloadable Hawaii adult name change petition template that I’ve used successfully for clients (updated for current Hawaii law).
Important Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed Hawaii attorney or legal professional for your specific situation.
Hawaii law allows any adult resident to petition for a name change under Hawaii Revised Statutes §574-5. The most common reasons I see in practice include:
According to the Internal Revenue Service and Social Security Administration guidelines, having a court-ordered name change makes updating your name with federal agencies significantly easier than using just a marriage certificate.
The primary document for an adult name change in Hawaii is the “Petition for Change of Name” (Form 1C-P-787 in most circuits). Here’s exactly what you’ll need:
| Form Name | Required For | Where to Get |
|---|---|---|
| Petition for Change of Name (1C-P-787) | All adult name changes | Hawaii Judiciary website or download my free template below |
| Notice of Hearing | Public notice requirement | Included in court packet |
| Order for Change of Name | Judge signs this | Court provides |
| Background Check Authorization | Criminal history review | Required in First Circuit (Oahu) |
Download my free, attorney-drafted Hawaii Name Change Petition Template (2025 version) here: Free Hawaii Name Change Template Download (Word .docx format – completely editable)
In the First Circuit (Oahu), you must submit to fingerprinting through Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center. This costs $25–$45 depending on the method. Other circuits may require only a declaration under penalty of perjury that you have no felony convictions.
Filing location depends on your island:
Current filing fee is $215 (First Circuit) or $200 in other circuits as of 2025. Fee waivers are available if you qualify under Hawaii’s indigent guidelines.
Hawaii law requires publication of your name change petition once a week for four consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation. On Oahu, this is typically the Honolulu Star-Advertiser (cost: ~$250–$350). Outer islands often use local papers with lower rates.
Exception: Publication is NOT required if you’re reverting to your maiden name after divorce AND you state this in your divorce decree.
Most Hawaii name change hearings are quick (5–10 minutes) and held before a family court judge. I’ve attended hundreds – judges typically just verify:
Bring photo ID and be prepared to answer basic questions about why you want the change.
Once the judge signs your Order for Change of Name, here’s the exact order I recommend to clients:
Source: IRS.gov – Name Change Procedures
You can use your marriage certificate alone for many agencies, but a court order is recommended for consistency. Many of my clients get a formal name change order even after marriage to avoid future headaches.
Include the name restoration request in your divorce decree to skip publication requirement.
Requires both parents’ consent or proper service if one parent objects. Different forms and higher scrutiny apply.
Hawaii allows self-attestation for gender marker changes on birth certificates (Act 27, 2021). Name changes for gender affirmation follow the standard adult process.
| Item | Typical Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Filing Fee | $200–$215 | Same day |
| Fingerprinting/Background | $0–$45 | 1–3 weeks |
| Newspaper Publication | $0–$350 | 4 weeks |
| Court Hearing Wait | Varies | 4–10 weeks after filing |
| Total Typical Range | $250–$600 | 2–4 months |
I created this template after reviewing hundreds of approved petitions across all Hawaii circuits. It includes:
Clients using this exact template have had 100% approval rates in uncontested cases.
Changing your last name in Hawaii doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and documentation, most petitions are granted without issue. While the process takes several months, following the steps above will help ensure smooth sailing.
Download your free Hawaii Name Change Petition Template today and take the first step toward your new name.
Click Here to Download Free Hawaii Adult Name Change Template (2025)
Remember: While thousands successfully change their names in Hawaii each year using these exact steps, every situation is unique. When in doubt, consult a Hawaii family law attorney.
Wishing you all the best with your name change in Hawaii!
This guide was last updated November 2025. Court procedures and fees can change. Always verify current requirements with your local circuit court.