INSTRUCTIONS FOR FLORIDA SUPREME COURT APPROVED FAMILY LAW
FORM 12.982(a)
PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME (ADULT)
(02/18)
When should this form be used?
This form should be used when an adult wants the court to change his or her name. This form is not to
be used in connection with a dissolution of marriage or for adoption of child(ren). If you want a change
of name because of a dissolution of marriage or adoption of child(ren) that is not yet final, the change
of name should be requested as part of that case.
This form should be typed or printed in black ink and must be signed before a notary public or deputy
clerk. You should file the original with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where you live and
keep a copy for your records.
What should I do next?
Unless you are seeking to restore a former name, you must have fingerprints submitted for a state and
national criminal records check. The fingerprints must be taken in a manner approved by the Department
of Law Enforcement and must be submitted to the Department for a state and national criminal records
check. You may not request a hearing on the petition until the clerk of court has received the results of
your criminal history records check. The clerk of court can instruct you on the process for having the
fingerprints taken and submitted, including information on law enforcement agencies or service providers
authorized to submit fingerprints electroni