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How can a person change his last name on the birth certificate?

How can a person change his last name on the birth certificate?

Q: What if father's name is not on a birth certificate?

If the father's name is missing from a birth certificate, you may be able to add it through a court order or by submitting an acknowledgment of paternity if applicable. This process can vary by state, so it's advisable to check with your local vital records office for specific requirements.

Q: Whose last name goes first on birth certificate?

Typically, the last name of the father is listed first on a birth certificate, followed by the mother's last name. However, parents can usually choose the order of the last names when registering the birth, depending on state regulations.

Q: Why does the father's last name go first?

Traditionally, the father's last name appears first on a birth certificate due to historical naming conventions. However, parents can choose the order of last names based on personal preference and state laws.

Q: What to put on a birth certificate if the father is unknown?

If the father's identity is unknown, you can leave that section blank or indicate 'unknown' on the birth certificate. Some states may allow you to add the father's name later if paternity is established.

Q: When having two last names, which one goes first?

When parents have two last names, they can choose which one to list first on the birth certificate. This decision is typically based on personal preference or cultural practices, and both names can be included.

Full question:

I have somebody else's last name on the birth certificate and the guy who's last name on my birth certificate is not my father. I don't know what to do on the birth certificate which has somebody else's last name. How can I change my last name on the birth certificate?

Category: Vital Records
Subcategory: Birth Certificates
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Texas

Answer:

You can change your name by a court order. Thereafter, you can request the state registrar to attach an amendment showing the change to your original birth record. You may also have to present proof of the change of name to the state registrar.
The following are the statutes in this regard:

Sec. 192.010. Change of Name.

(a) Subject to department rules, an adult whose name is changed by court order, or the legal representative of any person whose name is changed by court order, may request that the state registrar attach an amendment showing the change to the person's original birth record.

(b) The state registrar shall require proof of the change of name that the executive commissioner by rule may prescribe.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What if my last name is different on my birth certificate?

If your last name on your birth certificate differs from your current name, you can request a name change through a court order. After obtaining the court order, you will need to contact the state registrar to amend your birth certificate. Make sure to provide any required documentation to support your name change.