[NC] What steps do I take after filing a name-change petition?

NC Legal (General)

Hello, I just submitted my petition. Now I wait until 10 days from today to start doing everything else?

December 11, 2025

Queeneth E. Esq

4,470 satisfied customers

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Thank you for your patience. After you file the petition, the clerk dockets it. There is not usually an automatic 10-day waiting period. Next steps depend on the type of name change:

Adult name change: You must publish notice in a local newspaper once a week for 4 weeks unless you qualify for a confidentiality exemption.
Minor name change: Requires parental consent and possibly a hearing.
Special cases: Publication may be waived.

The clerk may send publication instructions or set a hearing. Sometimes you must follow up yourself. Processing times vary, but in most NC counties, the process takes at least 6–8 weeks due to the publication requirement. If you don’t hear back in 10–14 business days, call Wayne County Clerk of Superior Court (919-722-6100).

Be sure you have a stamped copy of your filing, and gather your documents: ID, birth certificate, proof of residency, criminal background checks, and consent forms if applicable. Also, you should have both the state and federal background checks printed and certified.

Steps:
1. NC SBI Background Check
• Submit Form AOC-CR-314
• Provide fingerprints
• Pay $38 to NC SBI

2. FBI Background Check
• Submit the Identity History Summary request
• Provide fingerprints
• Pay $18

3. Fingerprinting
• Go to Wayne County Sheriff’s Office or Goldsboro PD
• Bring your ID
• Fee is usually $10–15

4. Submit Results
• Keep certified copies
• Provide them to the clerk when requested

Processing times: SBI 2–4 weeks; FBI 3–6 weeks by mail or a few days electronically.

North Carolina Name Change Petition

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Hello, I just submitted my petition. Now I wait until 10 days from today to start doing everything else?

Lexi, Chatbot

I understand that waiting after submitting a petition can be stressful. What type of petition did you submit?

Name change.

Lexi, Chatbot

Have you received any communication or updates regarding your petition yet?

No, not yet. I just submitted it.

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the lawyer should know before I connect you?

Nope, that’ll be all.

Queeneth E. Esq

Hello, my name is Queeneth. I’m an attorney with over 8 years of experience. I’ll do my best to help. I understand you're waiting after submitting your name change petition. What state are you in?

I live in Goldsboro, NC.

Queeneth E. Esq

Thank you. Please give me a moment to prepare a response.

Okay, I do have a driver’s license and birth certificate. How do I request a background check, and I’m assuming I should have it printed?

Queeneth E. Esq

Thank you for your patience. After you file the petition, the clerk dockets it. There is not usually an automatic 10-day waiting period. Next steps depend on the type of name change:

Adult name change: You must publish notice in a local newspaper once a week for 4 weeks unless you qualify for a confidentiality exemption.
Minor name change: Requires parental consent and possibly a hearing.
Special cases: Publication may be waived.

Steps:
1. NC SBI Background Check
• Submit Form AOC-CR-314
• Provide fingerprints
• Pay $38 to NC SBI

2. FBI Background Check
• Submit the Identity History Summary request
• Provide fingerprints
• Pay $18

3. Fingerprinting
• Go to Wayne County Sheriff’s Office or Goldsboro PD
• Bring your ID
• Fee is usually $10–15

4. Submit Results
• Keep certified copies
• Provide them to the clerk when requested

Processing times: SBI 2–4 weeks; FBI 3–6 weeks by mail or a few days electronically.

Okay, thanks.

Queeneth E. Esq

You’re welcome. I’m happy to have assisted you today.

Queeneth E. Esq

4,470 satisfied customers

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