Changing Vital Records and Other Documents to Align with Gender Identity: Name Changes, Birth Certificates, and More

In Pennsylvania, it is possible to change the gender listed on your birth certificate and other important documents, as well as your name, to align with your gender identity. To change the gender listed on a Pennsylvania birth certificate, you must submit documentation to Vital Records from a physician verifying that the physician is providing “appropriate clinical treatment for gender transition,” along with the appropriate application and fee.

Changing your name is a bit more complicated than changing your gender on your birth certificate, as you must file a petition to change your name with your local county Court of Common Pleas. In the process of adjudication your petition, the Court will require you to submit to a basic background check, to ensure that you are not attempting to change your name in order to evade debts or criminal charges. You will also need to pay to publish a notice regarding your name change in two local newspapers or law journals (this requirement varies slightly by county), which will also serve to notify any interested individuals that you are attempting to change your name. If the judge is satisfied that you are not seeking to change your name to evade any legal obligations, and that you have completed all the steps properly, the judge will issue a decree changing your name to your desired name.

Once you have a name change decree from the Court, you can change the name listed on your birth certificate, your Social Security card, your driver’s license, and other important documents. For many of these documents, there will be a fee and a separate application process for you to complete, so it is important to check with each issuing agency for their requirements.

We are experienced in filing for name changes for our clients, as well as in amending Pennsylvania Vital Records, not only for individuals whose documents do not align with their gender identity, but also for a variety of other reasons (incorrect spellings, family changes, etc.). If you are interested in learning more or in discussing your unique circumstances with one of our attorneys, contact Tanner Law Offices at (717) 731-8114 to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.