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In Rhode Island, you file a name change petition with the probate court for your town or city in the county where you live. The filing fee is $30–39 (varies by town), and newspaper publication is generally not required. Fee waivers are available if you cannot afford the cost. Court and agency rules can change, so verify current requirements with your local court before filing.
Court
the probate court for your town or city
Filing fee
$30–39 (varies by town)
Timeline
local_probate_court_specific
Residency
Varies; check with your local court
Publication
Not typically required
Fee waiver
Available for qualifying petitioners
Gender marker options
M / F / X
pdf_RI_65023bdcbd86 — Gender Marker Change Petition
Official petition for Rhode Island name change process.
View form Source: Rhode Island GovernmentThe filing fee for a name change in Rhode Island is $30–39 (varies by town). This may not include publication costs, certified copies, or other court fees, which vary by county. Fees can change — confirm the current amount with the court before filing.
Fee waiver available: Yes
Fee waivers are available for qualifying petitioners (indigency / inability to pay). Ask the court clerk about the waiver process. Source: RI probate courts; RI Statutes 33-22-21.
No, newspaper publication is not typically required for a standard name change in this state.
If publication raises safety concerns, ask the court about available options or waivers.
Available options: M, F, X. Self-attestation is allowed. Rules can change, so verify with the relevant state agency before submitting documents.
Available options: M, F, X
Self-attestation: Yes
Medical proof required: Verify with the relevant agency
Agency rules can change. Verify current requirements with the relevant state agency before submitting documents.
After receiving your court order, update your records with key agencies. The following list is a general starting point — priorities may vary by situation.
County procedures can vary. Always confirm filing steps with your local court.
Free guides explain the general process. Complete helps apply the process to your situation.
In Rhode Island, you file a name change petition with the probate court for your town or city in the county where you live. Requirements can vary by county and situation, so verify current instructions with the official court source before filing.
The filing fee in Rhode Island is $30–39 (varies by town). Additional costs may apply (publication fees, certified copies, background checks) and fees can change. Source: RI probate courts; RI Statutes 33-22-21. Confirm the current amount with the court before filing.
No, newspaper publication is not typically required for a standard name change in this state.
Yes, a court hearing is generally required.
Available options: M, F, X. Self-attestation is allowed. Rules can change, so verify with the relevant state agency before submitting documents.
Start with the official court or agency source linked on this page. NameRight provides informational guidance and preparation tools, not legal advice. Court and agency rules can change, so always verify before filing or paying fees.
Get a personalized filing path based on your situation.
NameRight is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. We provide self-help information, document preparation tools, and public court process guidance based on publicly available information. Court procedures and eligibility rules can change, and your situation may require advice from a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction. Full legal disclaimer