Parents change a child’s name for many reasons: a spelling mistake in the birth certificate, a new first name chosen later, a surname change after divorce or remarriage, adoption, or aligning names across documents before school admission or a passport application. In Maharashtra, the usual route is a notification in the Maharashtra Government Gazette through the DGPS e-Gazette. This guide covers what is different when the person is a minor.
Who applies for a minor
- A parent or legal guardian applies on the child’s behalf. The application is signed by the parent or guardian, and by the minor where possible.
- Where parents are separated, it is wise to have the other parent’s consent in writing, or a court order on custody or guardianship, to avoid a later dispute.
- Once the child turns 18, they can apply in their own right.
Documents usually needed
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Age proof of the minor | A birth certificate issued by the registrar of births, or a bonafide certificate from the school. A school leaving certificate is generally not accepted as age proof for this purpose. |
| Identity proof of the parent or guardian | Aadhaar, PAN, passport or similar |
| Photograph | In the size and format the portal specifies |
| Supporting documents for the reason | Divorce decree, adoption order, custody or guardianship order, or remarriage certificate, as applicable |
For fees, timelines and common rejection reasons, see gazette name change fees and time. To download the published gazette, see DGPS status and download.
Common situations
- Spelling error in the birth certificate: a minor spelling correction can often be made directly by the birth registrar on an application with proof. The gazette helps where the change is more than a correction.
- Surname change after divorce: the parent with custody may wish to change the child’s surname. Courts treat this as a decision affecting the child’s welfare, so the other parent’s consent or a court order is important. See child custody.
- After adoption: the adoption order supports the change; the birth record can also be updated on the basis of the order.
- Remarriage of a parent: taking a step-parent’s surname usually involves the consent of the other biological parent, or a court order.
After the gazette
- Birth certificate: apply to the registrar of births where the birth was registered to record the new name, attaching the gazette.
- School records: give the school the gazette and the updated birth certificate. Board records (SSC and HSC) have their own correction procedures and deadlines.
- Aadhaar and passport: update using the gazette and birth certificate. See updating records after the gazette.
Frequently asked questions
Can one parent change a child’s name without the other’s consent?
The application can be made by a parent or guardian, but a change without the other parent’s consent can be challenged, especially after separation. A written consent or court order avoids problems.
Is a gazette necessary to correct a small spelling mistake?
Often not. The birth registrar can correct clerical errors on application. Ask the registrar first.
Can the child’s religion be changed in the same notice?
Change of religion is a separate service, and conversion is now governed by the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026. See religion change in Maharashtra.
See also: name change in the Maharashtra Gazette.
Consultations are by appointment. To fix a time, telephone +91 99301 50560 or send a message on WhatsApp.
This guide describes the procedure as understood in October 2026. It is not legal advice; follow the current instructions on the DGPS portal.