What does it take to change an adult’s name?
In recent years, changing one's name has become a choice for more and more adults. Whether it is due to personal preference, Feng Shui luck, or other reasons, changing your name involves a series of legal procedures and material preparation. This article will introduce in detail the materials, procedures, precautions and related costs required to change an adult's name to help you successfully complete the name change.
1. Legal basis for adult name change

According to the Civil Code of the People's Republic of China and the Household Registration Regulations, citizens have the right to change their names in accordance with the law. Adults who want to change their name must meet one of the following conditions:
| Conditions | Description |
|---|---|
| The name is vulgar or confusing | The original name may cause misunderstanding or adverse effects |
| The same name as a famous person | may cause confusion or distress |
| Other valid reasons | Sufficient supporting materials are required |
2. Materials required for adults to change their name
To change your name, you need to prepare the following materials. The specific requirements may vary slightly from region to region:
| Material name | Specific requirements |
|---|---|
| Original and copy of ID card | Must be within the validity period |
| Original and copy of household register | Includes homepage and personal page |
| Name change application form | Handwritten or printed, signature required |
| Certificate from work unit or neighborhood committee | Some areas require |
| Documents proving the reason for name change | Such as duplicate name certificate, adverse impact certificate, etc. |
3. The specific process of changing an adult’s name
The process of changing your name generally includes the following steps:
| steps | Operation content | time required |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Prepare materials | Collect the above required materials | 1-3 days |
| 2. Submit application | Submit it to the police station where your household registration is located | that day |
| 3. Review | Public security agency review materials | 7-15 working days |
| 4. Approval | Approval by higher-level public security organs | 7-15 working days |
| 5. Apply for new documents | Receive a new household registration book and apply for a new ID card | 15-30 days for ID card |
4. Things to note when adults change their names
Things to note when changing your name:
1.Limit on the number of name changes: According to regulations, adults can only change their names once in their lifetime, so careful consideration is required.
2.Certificate update after name change: After name change, the following documents need to be updated in time:
| Document type | Update method |
|---|---|
| ID card | Must be applied again |
| bank card | Bring your new ID card to the bank to change it |
| social security card | Go to the Social Security Bureau to make changes |
| driver's license | Go to the vehicle management office to make changes |
| Academic certificate | Generally cannot be changed, proof of original name must be retained |
3.Name change fee:
| Project | cost |
|---|---|
| Change of household register | free |
| Apply for a new ID card | 20-40 yuan |
| Expedited ID card | Additional expedited fees apply |
5. Follow-up matters after name change
After changing the name, you still need to deal with the following matters:
1. Notify the HR department of the workplace to update personal information
2. Change name information on various contracts
3. Update social media account names
4. Inform relatives and friends of new name
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will changing my name affect my credit report?
A: It will not directly affect credit reporting, but personal information in banks and financial institutions needs to be updated in a timely manner.
Q: Will the original certificate still be valid after the name is changed?
A: ID cards, passports and other documents will become invalid after the name is changed and must be applied for again.
Q: Can I change my name at will?
A: No. Name changes must comply with legal provisions and must not contain any content that is illegal or contrary to public order and good customs.
7. Summary
Changing your name as an adult is a decision that requires careful consideration and involves multiple legal procedures and follow-up matters. Before deciding to change your name, it is recommended to fully understand the relevant regulations and procedures, prepare the required materials, and be prepared to update various documents after the name change. I hope this article can provide you with valuable reference information to help you successfully complete the name change procedure.
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