So your name change has been granted—congratulations! But now what?
To update your Social Security record, driver’s license, passport, bank accounts, and more, you’ll need certified copies of your Final Judgment of Name Change. These certified copies are your official legal proof that your name has been changed by court order.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to obtain certified copies of your name change order in New Jersey, how many you should request, what they’re used for, and what to do if you lose one.
📄 What Is a Certified Copy?
A certified copy is an official copy of a court document that is stamped and sealed by the court clerk. It confirms that the document is an exact copy of the original court order and is recognized as legally valid by government agencies, banks, and other institutions.
You’ll need certified copies—not regular photocopies—for most official updates.
🏛️ Where to Get Certified Copies of Your Name Change Order
You can obtain certified copies of your Final Judgment of Name Change from the Superior Court of New Jersey in the county where your case was filed and approved.
How to Request Certified Copies:
In Person
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Visit the Civil Division of the Superior Court where your case was heard.
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Ask the court clerk for certified copies of your Final Judgment of Name Change.
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Be prepared to:
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Provide a valid ID
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Share your docket number (found on your judgment)
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Pay the required fee (typically $15–$25 per copy, but it can vary)
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By Mail
If you can’t go in person, you can request copies by mail:
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Send a written request to the Civil Division clerk’s office.
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Include:
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Your full name (current and former)
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Date the judgment was entered
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Docket number (if known)
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A self-addressed stamped envelope
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A check or money order for the correct amount (made out to “Treasurer, State of New Jersey”)
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A copy of your ID for verification
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Electronically
Some counties may allow you to request certified copies through the Judiciary Electronic Document System (JEDS) or by emailing the court clerk. Contact your county courthouse to check current options.
📍 Find Your County Court Contact Info Here
🧾 How Many Certified Copies Should I Order?
We recommend getting at least 3–5 certified copies. Here’s why:
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Social Security Administration (may keep your copy)
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New Jersey MVC (driver’s license update)
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Banks, credit card companies, and employers
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Passport application
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Insurance, school, voter registration, and tax records
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One to keep in a safe place for future use
🔁 You can always order more later, but having a few on hand speeds up the post-name change process.
📁 What If I Lose My Certified Copy?
Don’t worry—certified copies can be replaced. Contact the Superior Court clerk’s office in the county where your name change was granted. You’ll need to provide your name and docket number, and pay a small fee for additional certified copies.
📝 Pro Tip: Bring a Copy to Every Name Update Appointment
Whether you’re visiting the DMV, your bank, or your employer, always bring a certified copy of your Final Judgment when updating your records. Some agencies will make a copy and return the original; others may keep it, so plan accordingly.
💳 Legal Fee Financing Available
If you worked with National Security Law Firm and still need help obtaining certified copies or completing post-name change steps, we’re happy to assist. We also offer legal financing through Pay Later by Affirm, allowing you to:
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Spread payments over 3 to 24 months
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Check eligibility with no credit impact
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Select Pay Later by Affirm when paying your invoice
📚 Want to Learn More About the Name Change Process?
Explore our Comprehensive New Jersey Name Change Guide for a step-by-step breakdown of the entire process, from filing the Verified Complaint to completing post-judgment updates.
✅ Need Help With Your Name Change?
Whether you’re just getting started or finalizing the last few steps, we’re here to support you.
📅 Book Your Free Consultation Online — it’s the quickest and easiest way to speak with an attorney