Can we change our names?

I was at the DMV a couple days ago taking the exam for my permit.
I noticed that a couple of people were changing their names. Apparently, you can do that at the DMV now. lol.

It's not that I don't like my name, it's just that no one knows me by it.

Let's say my name was Bob Billy Thorton.

But everyone has called me Billy Bob Thorton throughtout my life.

Do you think we can change our names officially?

(paperwork to change our social/EAD/etc.)

I don't see why not. right?

I don't see why not.

Advise if you are able to change your name??? I would really like to change mine

__________________
Application Sent: 10/18/2012
Application Delivered: 10/19/2012 Nebraska
G1145 Notice: 10/24/2012
I797C Letter: 10/26/2012
Biometrics Letter : 11/02/2012 Appointment: 11/20/2012
Walk in: 11/02/2012
EAD?

I think it is completely dependent on the State and their requirements!

I was under the impression that you could only do that if you were a permanent resident or citizen. At least in California you have to see a judge. http://www.courts.ca.gov/1051.htm

As stated above it depends on the state and their specific requirements. In my state, I filed a name change through the local probate court. My court date is next week. Once I receive the decision, I could then take document to DMV to change my name.

in order to change your name in CA, you need to petition to do so. which means a judge will determine if you have a real reason for changing your name. Unless you get married, changing your name at the DMV requires that you have approved court papers stating your name change.

but you also must remember that if you do change your name, with the courts and DMV, you must ALSO change you name with USCIS. which in the long run, may cause problems if you are able to adjust your status at any time in the future.

Yeah it seems it would be a hassle. Plus changing through DMV seems a bit too easy. Probably was correcting something.

I really want to know what your name is and what your new name will be....

Do tell.....

Just dropping my maternal name.

Current name: Andrew Wilson Vanderbilt Smith

Will be changing to: Andrew Wilson Vanderbilt