Can I choose a completely new name?

Through the divorce you can take a new last name. A new first or middle name usually needs a separate name-change case.

Do I have to change my name?

No. It's your choice. If you don't ask, your name stays as it is.

I forgot to ask in my divorce. Is it too late?

No. You can file a motion in your divorce case at any time. The court fee is $50.

What is the Treasury step?

When the judge orders a name change, you must mail a certified copy of the name-change judgment to the NJ Treasury within 45 business days, with a $50 fee. The judgment tells you where to send it.

Tri State Community Services LLCNewark, NJ · Se habla español

Main Office

1299 McCarter Highway (Route 21)
Newark, NJ 07104

(973) 643-0889

UNCONTESTED

$399 DIVORCE + Court Fee

Spouse's Signature Not Needed

Secondary Office

65 Walnut Street (Behind Prudential Center)
Newark, NJ 07102

(973) 732-7727

Changing your name after divorce in New Jersey

Short answer

Ask for it in your divorce papers. The judge can let you go back to any name you used before the marriage, or take a new last name. Either spouse can ask. We add the request to your papers.

Where are you now?

1Tell us the name you want: a name you used before the marriage, or a new last name.
2We add the request to your Complaint, with the court's name-change form (CN 13146).
3The judge signs it with your divorce judgment. The new name starts right away.

The easiest time to do it is while we prepare your divorce papers.

After the judge signs: update your records

Tick them off as you go.

Your progress

0 of 6 done

Tick each step when it's done.

Call (973) 643-0889

Tip for the MVC

The MVC accepts a divorce judgment for a name change only if it shows your married name and your previous name. We make sure both are on it.

Children's names

The divorce can't change your children's last name. That is a separate case, where the judge looks at what is best for the child.

Common questions

Want your old name back? Tell us when you come in.

Mon–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 10am–1pm.

Call (973) 643-0889 Get directions

Sources: N.J.S.A. 2A:34-21; NJ Courts form CN 13146 (name change judgment); NJ Courts Directive 12-24; NJ Courts post-judgment kit CN 10483; NJ Treasury, judgment name changes; N.J.S.A. 39:3-9a; NJ MVC, name change; NJ MVC, 6 Points ID; Social Security, form SS-5; U.S. State Department, passport name change; Emma v. Evans (N.J. 2013). General information, not legal advice. Fees change; check each office before you go.