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Many transgender people choose to change their name to fit their gender identity or expression. Pennsylvania allows individuals to change their name by two methods: common usage and court order. Common Usage The only thing that is required in order to change your name by common usage is that you use your new name consistently and exclusively. This is considered a legal way to change your name in Pennsylvania, and thus should protect you from, for example, being accused of fraud for using your new name. While common usage is a legitimate way to change your name in Pennsylvania, it may be difficult or impossible to obtain changes in your official identity documentation based on a common usage name change. Court Order The other way that you can change your name in Pennsylvania is by obtaining a court order. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has recognized that a gender transition is a legitimate reason for changing your legal name. A court ordered name change will allow you to change your name on your official identity documents, such as a driver's license, passport and social security card. In Pennsylvania you may obtain a court ordered name change without hiring an attorney. Equality Advocates offers a Name Change Kit, with step-by-step instructions on how to legally change your name and identity documents.
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