Different states have different laws, I can only talk about California since that's where I got my paperwork done. This is the official government site with the necessary forms to print out, I used it for my name change: California Courts Self-Help Center.

I had no idea how to properly fill out these papers so I received help from a lawyer at the LA Gay and Lesbian Center. I called and made an appointment there, then had my papers filled out by a professional. After that, I went to Van Nuys Courthouse with all my paperwork, paid the fees (costs are listed below), and got a court date to see a judge for my name change.

 

I went for my legal name change at Van Nuys Courthouse on May 18, 2006. I dressed up for the occasion with a dress shirt, dress pants, tie and everything before facing the judge. When it was time to go in ... I didn't even see the judge. I handed my papers to the secretary, she disappeared behind a door, and when she returned ... my papers were all signed and stamped. That's it. No questions asked. It was a happy day.

I made official copies of the name change for $15 each (I made 5 copies total), and brought one copy to my local Social Security office (also in Van Nuys) to get my new social security card. I brought one copy to my local DMV (in Winnetka), and got my new Driver's License-- also no questions asked. The lady at the counter who processed my request understood my situation and actually called me adorable. It was great, haha.

Costs (approximately, rounded up):
Legal Name Change: $350.00
Gay and Lesbian Center Help: $20.00
Ad in newspaper: $90.00
New Driver's License: $20.00
Copies of Name Change ($15 each): $75.00
New Social Security Card: $20.00
New Passport: $60.00
Total: $635.00



A paper verifying my gender identification and demeanor from my doctor. Assisted in getting my gender changed on my Driver's License.

Keep in mind that this is only for the name change and not for the gender change. Gender is trickier, I've heard that one is required to have bottom surgery before qualifying to have it changed. It's stupid, I know, because not everyone wants/can have bottom surgery. However, I've gotten the gender on my driver's license changed with a simple verbal request without any problems. You might want a letter from your therapist stating you've completed "all necessary treatment" as proof. There isn't even an official law about it so success depends on sheer luck/the person who happens to handle your request. It could go either way.





Name and Gender changed on my Driver's License.

If you're under 18, you'll need parental consent for the name change. It's frustrating to have to wait, but that's the law. I haven't had my gender officially changed, but all my papers say "Male" strictly by request.

Good luck.