I use a name that is different from the name on my birth certificate. I need to renew my license, but I cannot prove my identity. What can I do?

The best way to ensure that you can renew your license is to legally change your old name to your new name.

To do that, you must:

  • Go to the Courthouse and file a notarized Petition for Change of Name.
  • Submit a background check with your petition.
  • Ask a Clerk of Court to schedule a hearing.

At the hearing, you will need the judge to sign a Final Judgement of Change of Name.

Once you have a court order with your new name, you need to have your name changed at the Social Security office and Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

You must also bring:

  • Your birth certificate
  • A document that proves that you are a United States citizen
  • An identification card that has your old name on it

The Legal Information Center is a free program to provide information to people who are representing themselves in Family Law cases in Hillsborough County. Get the information you need to make an informed decision about your case.

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