As a business and legal template writer with over a decade of experience drafting court forms across the United States, I’ve helped thousands of individuals and families successfully complete adult and minor name changes in Michigan. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to change your name in Michigan in 2025, including adult name changes, minor name changes, and post-marriage or divorce options. You’ll also get a free downloadable Michigan Petition to Change Name template that I personally use with clients.
Important Disclaimer: This article and the attached template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Name change laws can vary by county, and court procedures change. Always consult a licensed Michigan attorney or your local probate court for your specific situation.
The most common way adults in Michigan change their name (outside of marriage or divorce) is by filing a Petition to Change Name in the probate court of the county where they reside. Michigan law is governed by MCL 711.1 and follows a straightforward court process that typically takes 6-12 weeks from filing to final order.
According to the Michigan Secretary of State and local probate courts, over 8,000 name change petitions are granted annually in the state.
Click below to download my updated-for-2025 Michigan Name Change Petition template in both PDF and Word format. This is the exact template I’ve used successfully in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Kent, Washtenaw, and 40+ other Michigan counties.
Download Free Michigan Adult Name Change Petition Template (PDF + Word)
Download Free Minor Name Change Michigan Template (PC 51b)
Changing a child’s name in Michigan is more complex and requires consent from both parents (unless one parent’s rights have been terminated). The process uses Form PC 51b (Petition for Name Change of Minor) and follows MCL 711.1(5).
Good news: You do NOT need to file a petition if you’re simply taking your spouse’s last name after marriage or reverting to a prior name after divorce.
Source: Michigan SOS Name Change Guidelines
| Expense | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Filing Fee (Probate Court) | $175–$210 (varies by county) |
| Fingerprints (Adult only) | $50–$75 |
| Newspaper Publication | $60–$150 |
| Certified Copies of Order | $10–$20 each |
| Social Security Card | Free |
| Michigan Driver’s License/ID | $9–$25 |
| U.S. Passport Name Change | $130 (if renewing) |
Many counties offer fee waivers for low-income petitioners.
Once you have your certified Order, update in this order:
See IRS guidance: IRS Name Change Procedures
Can I change my name online in Michigan?
No. Michigan requires in-person filing at your county probate court.
Do I need a lawyer to change my name in Michigan?
No, but many people hire one for complex cases (criminal history, minor disputes, objections).
Can I change my middle name only?
Yes. Michigan allows full, partial, or single-name changes.
Will my criminal record disappear with a name change?
No. Michigan State Police and FBI records are linked by fingerprints, not just name.
Changing your name in Michigan is a well-established legal right with a clear process. Whether you’re pursuing a legal name change in Michigan after transition, for personal reasons, or for your child, the probate court system is designed to be accessible to self-represented individuals.
Download the free templates above, follow the steps outlined, and you can complete your State of Michigan name change without expensive attorney fees in most straightforward cases.
Again, this guide and the templates are not legal advice. For complex situations, consult a Michigan family law attorney or contact your local probate court directly.
Best of luck with your new name!
Last updated: November 2025