A misspelled name on your birth certificate or driver’s license may seem like a minor error—but it can create major headaches. Whether you’re applying for a passport, starting a new job, enrolling in school, or updating your Social Security records, consistency in your legal documents is key.

Fortunately, if your name is spelled incorrectly on a New Jersey birth certificate or driver’s license, there are legal pathways to correct the mistake—and National Security Law Firm can help guide you through them quickly and efficiently.

🧾 Fixing a Misspelled Name on a New Jersey Birth Certificate

📍 If You Were Born in New Jersey

The New Jersey Office of Vital Statistics allows you to request a correction to your birth certificate if the name is misspelled.

✅ When a Court Order Is Not Required:

You can request a correction without a court order if:

  • The error is clearly clerical or typographical (e.g., “Jonh” instead of “John”)

  • The correct spelling is supported by early records (hospital birth records, baptismal certificates, early school or medical records)

What You’ll Need:

  • The REG-15 Correction Application (available on the NJ Department of Health website)

  • A copy of your current birth certificate

  • Supporting documents showing the correct spelling (e.g., school records, ID, medical forms)

  • A government-issued photo ID

  • Applicable fee (currently $33)

Submit everything to: New Jersey Office of Vital Statistics and Registry
P.O. Box 370
Trenton, NJ 08625-0370

View the full instructions here »

⚖️ When a Court Order Is Required:

If the correction is more substantial—such as:

  • You want to change a name that was never correct

  • You’ve been using a different name consistently

  • The record is missing key information (e.g., full middle name)

Then you may need to file for a legal name change through the Superior Court. Once granted, the court order can be used to amend your birth certificate.

Learn more about the legal name change process here »

🚗 Correcting a Misspelled Name on Your New Jersey Driver’s License

Your driver’s license must reflect your legal name. If it contains a misspelling, the correction process depends on what’s officially on record with the Social Security Administration and New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC).

🔁 Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Gather Documents Proving the Correct Spelling

    • Valid U.S. passport or birth certificate

    • Social Security card with correct name

    • Court order or legal documents (if applicable)

  2. Visit an MVC Licensing Center

    • Make an appointment if required

    • Bring your documents and valid photo ID

    • Complete any forms provided at the center

  3. Update Your Name with the SSA (if needed)

    • If your Social Security record has the misspelled name, you must fix that first

    • Submit proof of correct spelling to the SSA before visiting the MVC

  4. Pay the Replacement Fee

    • As of now, a corrected license costs $11

🧠 Common Scenarios We See

  • Spelling typo on birth certificate: Your legal name is “Katherine,” but your birth certificate says “Kathrine.”

  • Mismatch between SSA and license: Your Social Security record shows your name as “Luis,” but your license says “Louis.”

  • Your name was always wrong on record: You’ve gone by “Anna” your whole life, but your birth certificate says “Ana”—and you’re ready to legally fix it.

💬 Need Help Fixing a Name Error?

Mistakes on identity documents can interfere with job applications, government benefits, travel, and more. At National Security Law Firm, we’ll help you:

  • Determine whether you need a court order

  • File for a legal name change, if necessary

  • Prepare supporting documentation

  • Work with state agencies to correct the record

📚 Want to Learn More About the Name Change Process?

If you’re ready to change your name or just want to understand the process, check out our Comprehensive Name Change Guide for a step-by-step walkthrough, including timelines, costs, and frequently asked questions.

💳 Legal Fee Financing Available

Worried about upfront legal costs? We offer flexible payment plans through Pay Later by Affirm:

  • Spread legal fees over 3 to 24 months
  • No impact to your credit score when checking eligibility
  • Just select Pay Later by Affirm when you receive your invoice

✅ Ready to File Your Verified Complaint?

Don’t take chances with the first—and most important—step in your name change. Let us prepare and file your Verified Complaint for you, ensure proper service, and represent you at the hearing if needed.

📅 Book Your Free Consultation Online — the fastest and easiest way to get started