Certificate of Change of Name
Last updated on May 6, 2026A Certificate of Change of Name proves that your legal name has changed. You may need to show it when you update your name on documents or records, such as your driver’s licence.
Vital Statistics mails you a Certificate of Change of Name free of charge after processing your legal change of name application. If you lose this certificate or need an additional one, you can order one from Vital Statistics.
On this page
- Who can order a Certificate of Change of Name
- How to order
- Cost and processing times
- What a Certificate of Change of Name looks like
Who can order a Certificate of Change of Name
You can order a change of name certificate if you are:
- The person who had their name changed
- A parent of a child under 19 years of age
- Someone with written authorization from the person who had their name changed
- A guardian with a copy of guardianship papers
- An executor of the person's estate upon proof of death and executorship
Certificates of Change of Name are only available for legal name changes.
Using a spouse’s surname after marriage
You do not use a Certificate of Change of Name to change to your spouse’s surname after marriage. In most cases, you can update your name with government agencies, banks and other organizations by showing your current identification and your marriage certificate.
How to order a Certificate of Change of Name
After you confirm you are eligible, you can apply for a certified copy of a Certificate of Change of Name using the Application for Change of Name Certificate (VSA 430N) form (PDF, 532KB).
Apply by mail
Mail your completed application form with payment to:
Vital Statistics Agency
PO Box 9657 Stn Prov Govt
Victoria, B.C.
V8W 9P3
Apply in person
Submit your completed application form with payment at a Service BC location.
Not all Service BC locations offer this service.
Service BC representatives can give you the application form. You can also download it using the link above.
Cost and processing times
The cost depends on how quickly you need the certificate processed and delivered.
Mail delivery
$27 per certificate
Prints within 5 business days, plus mailing time from Victoria to you.
Courier delivery
$60 per certificate
Prints the next business day, plus courier delivery time from Victoria to you.
What a Certificate of Change of Name looks like
Click to enlarge.
The Certificate of Change of Name lists:
- The old and new name of the person involved in the legal change of name
- The city of residence at the time of the change of name
- Registration number
- Date of registration
The size of a large certificate is 21.6 cm x 17.8 cm.