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NC-200-INFOOptional

Instructions for Filing a Petition for Change of Name to Conform to Gender Identity

California · Judicial Council of California · Effective July 1, 2026

This form provides instructions for filing a request to change a name to match a person's gender identity. It explains which court to file in and what other forms are needed for the process.

The court describes it as: Explains what will happen in a name change case to match your gender identity, or to your minor child’s gender identity, and what forms to use. Also gives information about changing a child's name and other important information.

Open the official PDFfrom Judicial Council of California

Where this fits in a case

Start a case

Stage: Start a case

This guide is used when someone needs to file paperwork to change their name because it does not match their gender identity. It also gives information about changing a child's name or an adult's name.

Either party may file.

Official instructions

How-to guides published by the court for this form.

Common questions

Where must I file this petition?
California residents must file the petition in the superior court of the county where the person whose name is changing lives. Non-California residents have different filing rules depending on other documents they are requesting. Great care should be taken to read the instructions for specific filing rules.
What happens if I file for a minor's name change?
If the petition is for a minor and not all living parents sign it, you must fill out the Order to Show Cause form and take it to the clerk's office. A hearing might be set if objections are filed.

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 9, 2026. The current version took effect July 1, 2026.

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