Changing your name in Louisiana—whether after marriage, divorce, or for any other personal reason—is a straightforward legal process when you know the correct steps. As an attorney who has drafted and filed hundreds of Louisiana name change petitions over the past decade, I’ve helped clients in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and across the state successfully complete adult name changes, minor name changes, and post-marriage name changes. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through how to legally change your name in Louisiana in 2025, explain the exact Louisiana name change forms you need, and provide a free, attorney-drafted Louisiana name change petition template you can download and customize today.
Quick important disclaimer: This article and the free template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Name change laws can vary slightly parish-to-parish, and court procedures change. Always consult a licensed Louisiana attorney or verify current local rules before filing.
In Louisiana, adult name changes (age 18 and over) are governed by Louisiana Revised Statutes 13:4751–4755 and Code of Civil Procedure Article 803. Unlike many states that have standardized statewide forms, Louisiana requires you to file an original verified petition for name change in the district court of the parish where you have lived for at least one year.
Common reasons people file a name change petition in Louisiana:
If you are simply taking your spouse’s last name after marriage or reverting to a prior name after divorce, you usually do not need to file a formal petition for name change in Louisiana.
Louisiana law allows you to use your marriage certificate (for marriage) or divorce judgment (for reversion) as proof of name change with Social Security, DMV, passport office, banks, etc. Many of my clients in New Orleans and Baton Rouge complete their entire Louisiana name change after marriage just by presenting the marriage certificate—no court appearance required.
However, if you want a court order for extra documentation (some countries or agencies require it), you can still file the formal petition below.
You must have lived in your current Louisiana parish for at least one year before filing. Out-of-state residents cannot file in Louisiana.
This is the core document. Download my free 2025-updated Louisiana name change form template below. It is drafted to comply with La. R.S. 13:4751–4755 and has been accepted in Orleans, Jefferson, East Baton Rouge, Caddo, and Calcasieu parishes.
Click here to download the FREE Louisiana Name Change Petition Template (Word .docx)
The petition must be signed in front of a Louisiana notary and two witnesses (or notarized with verification).
File the original + two copies with the Clerk of Court in your parish of residence. Typical filing fees range $250–$450 depending on the parish (Orleans Civil District Court is approximately $350 as of 2025).
Louisiana requires publication of the name change notice once a week for three consecutive weeks in the official journal of the parish (unless you obtain a court order waiving publication for safety reasons).
After publication, the judge will set a short hearing (usually 5–10 minutes). You must appear and explain why the name change is not for fraudulent purposes.
Once signed, get several certified copies (usually $10–$15 each). You’ll need them for Social Security, Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, passport, banks, etc.
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Verified Petition | Yes | Use free template above |
| Birth Certificate | Usually | Bring original or certified copy |
| Photo ID | Yes | Driver’s license or passport |
| Proof of Residency | Sometimes | Utility bill, lease, etc. |
| Filing Fee | Yes | Cash, money order, or clerk-accepted method |
| Publication Affidavit | At hearing | Newspaper provides this |
In Orleans Parish, adult name changes are filed at Civil District Court (421 Loyola Ave). As of 2025, First City Court and Second City Court no longer handle adult name changes—only Civil District Court. Expect slightly higher filing fees (~$350–$400) and plan for publication in The Times-Picayune / The New Orleans Advocate.
Changing a child’s name requires both parents’ consent (or proper service if one parent objects) and proof that the change is in the child’s best interest. The free adult template above should not be used for minors—use the Louisiana Judicial Council minor name change forms or consult an attorney.
Unfortunately, no. There is no statewide Louisiana name change online portal in 2025. Everything must be filed in person or via mail with the district court (most parishes do not accept e-filing for name changes).
How long does a name change take in Louisiana?
Usually 8–12 weeks from filing to judgment (mostly waiting for publication).
Do I need a lawyer to change my name in Louisiana?
No, but many of my clients hire me just to draft the petition and avoid mistakes.
Can I change my name to anything I want?
Almost—cannot be for fraudulent purposes, cannot interfere with others’ rights, and cannot be a famous name intended to mislead.
Will a Louisiana name change appear on background checks?
The judgment is public record, but most consumer background checks do not show it.
Completing a legal name change in Louisiana is very achievable without spending thousands on attorney fees. With the right petition, proper publication, and a short court appearance, you can have your new name officially recognized statewide and nationally.
Download the free Petition for Name Change Louisiana template today, follow the steps above, and feel free to reach out to a local attorney if you hit any snags. Congratulations in advance on your new name!
Download Free Louisiana Name Change Petition Template (2025)
Sources: Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 13 §4751–4755; Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure; IRS.gov (name change procedures with SSA); individual parish clerk of court websites (Orleans, East Baton Rouge, Jefferson, etc.). Last updated November 2025.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Name change rules and fees can change. Always verify with your parish Clerk of Court or a licensed Louisiana attorney before filing.