Changing your name in BC: FAQ

If you're 19 or older, you can apply to legally change your name in BC. You can choose almost any new name you want — but there are limits.

Your new name can't:

• be confusing or embarrassing to others (so you generally can't choose symbols or very famous names)

• be objectionable

• be chosen for an improper purpose, such as avoiding debts

You must also have been living in BC, or had BC as your permanent home, for at least three months before applying.

No. You don't have to change your last name when you marry. Under BC law, you can:

• keep the last name you had before the marriage

• use the last name you had at birth or adoption

• take your spouse’s last name 

These options apply to all married couples.

You can choose any of these options and simply start using that name — no legal name change or court application required.

To update your identification and records — such as your driver's licence, passport, or bank accounts — contact each organization directly. Most will ask for your marriage certificate, and some may also ask for your birth certificate. 

If you want to hyphenate your last names, combine them, or create a new last name after marriage, you’ll need to apply for a legal name change through the BC Vital Statistics Agency.

See our complete guide for step-by-step instructions.

If you're divorcing, you can use:

• the last name you used during the marriage

• a previous married last name 

• your last name at birth

You don't need to apply for a legal name change to use one of these names.

To update your identification and records, contact each organization directly. Many will ask for formal proof of your name. You can ask the court to include your chosen name in the divorce order, which can serve as that proof.

If you want to use a completely new name, you can ask for it as part of the divorce process. For details, see the complete guide to changing your name.

A parent can apply to change the last name of a child who is 18 or younger. 

To apply, you must:

• be listed as a parent on the child's birth certificate or immigration documents

• have lived in BC for at least three months

• have written consent from all other guardians

• have the child's written consent if the child is between 12 and 18 years old

• complete the required criminal record check process if the child is between 12 and 18 years old

Applications are made through the BC Vital Statistics Agency.

If another guardian can't or won't consent, you can ask Vital Statistics to waive the consent requirement. 

Some name changes require a legal name change application — for example, if you want to use a completely new name or a name that reflects your gender identity.

You apply through the BC Vital Statistics Agency. You must be 19 or older and have been living in BC, or had BC as your permanent home, for at least three months before applying.  

You'll need supporting documents, a criminal record check, and the application fee.

If the application is approved, you'll receive a change of name certificate.

The application fee is currently $137. 

You may also need to pay for:

• a criminal record check, including fingerprinting

• certified copies of supporting documents

• witnessing or certification of your application 

Fees can change. Check the BC Vital Statistics Agency for current amounts.