The Importance of Obtaining a Name Change in Pennsylvania to Get a REAL ID

For Pennsylvania residents looking to fly domestically or enter federal facilities, obtaining a REAL ID is becoming increasingly essential. As of May 7, 2025, federal law will require a REAL ID or another federally accepted form of identification (Passport) for access to certain secure federal sites and boarding commercial flights.

One of the key requirements to obtain a REAL ID in Pennsylvania is that your legal name must match across all your identity documents, including your birth certificate, Social Security card, and current driver’s license. If you’ve changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or personal reasons and it no longer matches your other documents, you must legally update it through a court-ordered name change before applying for a REAL ID.

This step is critical because the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) requires proof of all legal name changes to issue a REAL ID-compliant license. Without a legal name change document—such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order—you may not be able to complete the REAL ID application process.

Taking the time to complete a legal name change ensures your identification documents align properly and helps avoid delays or denials when applying for your REAL ID. While the process can take time and paperwork, it’s a necessary step toward securing compliant, federally recognized identification that will be required for travel and more in the near future.

Changing your name in Pennsylvania involves a legal process that must be approved by a court. Whether you’re changing your name due to marriage, divorce, gender transition, or personal reasons, it’s important to follow the proper steps to ensure your new name is legally recognized.

Here’s a brief overview of how to obtain a legal name change in Pennsylvania:

File a Petition with the Court
Start by filing a Petition for Name Change with the Court of Common Pleas in the county where you live. This petition includes your current name, the name you wish to adopt, and the reason for the change. You’ll also need to provide personal information, such as your date of birth and residence history.

Submit Required Documents
Along with your petition, you must submit:
• A copy of your fingerprints (taken at an authorized fingerprinting site)
• A criminal background check from the Pennsylvania State Police
• A verification, affirming the truth of your petition

Publish Notice of the Hearing
Pennsylvania law typically requires you to publish notice of your name change in two newspapers—one of general circulation and one legal journal in your county—unless you can request the court to waive this requirement for safety or privacy reasons.

Attend a Court Hearing
After you file your petition and complete publication, the court will schedule a hearing. During this hearing, the judge will review your request and ensure there are no legal objections, such as attempts to avoid debt or legal action.

Receive the Court Order
If the judge approves your request, you will receive a signed court order officially granting your name change. You can then use this document to update your name on all legal records, including your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, and bank accounts.

Final Note
A legal name change is a powerful personal right—but it must be done correctly through the court system. If you’re unsure of the process or need help with paperwork, please call us at 215-656-3663.