The Real ID Dilemma: How to Legally Change Your Name

By Arash Shabany, Law Clerk, The Law Firm of Foster Krueger

The Real ID Dilemma

With Real ID now fully implemented across the country, many Americans are discovering that the name on their driver’s license or state-issued ID does not match the name listed on their birth certificate or other legal documents. Whether due to marriage, divorce, adoption, clerical errors, or years using a different name, these discrepancies can prevent you from obtaining a Real ID, which is required for traveling domestically and entering federal buildings.

While there are temporary workarounds at the airport, the only permanent solution is to correct the record through a legal name change.

The Legal Name Change Process

The process of legally changing one’s name is generally straightforward but takes several months to complete. In certain cases, it can take significantly longer.

The legal process begins with preparing and filing a formal petition with the court, along with the required forms. Then, your attorney will coordinate the legally required publication notice. This notice must be published in a local newspaper once a week for four consecutive weeks before the court hearing.

Fortunately, these hearings are routine, and judges approve name changes without requiring an in-person or virtual appearance.

Once the judge issues the signed Decree, the law office will provide you with a certified copy. Here in California, you will then take this document to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to update your records and complete the DMV’s Real ID application. 

Traveling Without a Real ID?

Given the time involved in completing a name change, you may need to travel before receiving your Real ID. Currently, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) still permits travelers without a Real ID to fly. However, you may be directed to a separate screening line and required to undergo additional identity verification, during which an agent may collect personal information, such as your current address, to confirm your identity.

So, if you’re flying without a Real ID, it is strongly recommended that you arrive at the airport at least one hour earlier than usual. For the most current information, please consult the TSA’s official website.

We Are Here to Assist With Name Changes

At The Law Firm of Foster Krueger, we’ve handled many name change matters over the past year, and we anticipate continued demand as Real ID enforcement expands. If you are facing this issue and require legal assistance, please contact us today. We are committed to making the process as efficient and smooth as possible — so you can update your ID and travel with confidence.