How to Change Name on Facebook: A Simple Guide

Simple tutorial: how to change your name on Facebook


This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, whether you're refreshing your profile following Facebook name change, fixing a spelling error, or simply opting for a new alias on the platform. Below, you will learn all about  changing your Facebook name, including policy guidelines, preparation tips, and a detailed, step-by-step process.

Understanding Facebook's Name Policy

Prior to exploring the steps for how to change your name on Facebook,  it's crucial to become well-versed in the platform's naming guidelines and restrictions. Facebook mandates that users use their real names to ensure authenticity on the platform. Here’s what you should understand about Facebook’s identity policy:

  • Real Name Requirement: Facebook encourages using your real identity, specifically the identity that appears on official documents like your driver’s license or passport.

  • Prohibited Characters and Symbols: Special characters, punctuation marks, and symbols are generally not allowed in Facebook names. 

  • Impersonation: Facebook has strict rules against impersonating others by using their identities. This measure seeks to forestall fraudulent behavior and maintain the platform's integrity.

Familiarizing yourself with these policies will increase the likelihood that your request to rename the Facebook name goes smoothly without any issues. 


Preparing for the Name Change: What You Need to Know

To successfully update а name in Facebook, You’ll need to possess certain key information at hand:

  • Your current legal identity;

  • The new identity you wish to use;

  • A valid form of identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or birth certificate, that reflects the updated identity.

Before you begin the process of changing your name, consider how the change may affect your personal and professional relationships on the platform. It might be advisable to notify your inner circle about your upcoming name alteration to prevent misunderstandings.

Worth mentioning that Facebook has specific guidelines and restrictions when it comes to name changes. For instance, they don't allow names that are deemed offensive, use unusual characters, or include titles. Make sure new name complies with Facebook's naming policies to avoid potential issues during the review process.

Detailed Instructions: Changing Your Name on Facebook

Now that you understand the policy and have prepared, it's time to go through the actual process of changing a name on a Facebook page. To make the process go smoothly, take these actions:

  1. Access Your Profile: Begin by entering Facebook credentials on either your computer or smartphone.

  2. Find the Settings Area: On a computer, select the downward-pointing arrow in the upper-right corner. On a phone, tap the menu icon. After that, choose ‘Settings and Privacy,’ and move on to the ‘Settings’ tab.

  3. Access Name Segment: Under General Profile Settings, find the "Name" area. Click on the ‘Edit’.

  4. Enter New Username: Type your new first, middle (optional), and surname in the assigned fields. Make sure that your new identity complies with Facebook's naming policy.

  5. Review Changes: Facebook will give you a glimpse of how your new identity will appear. Double-check for any typos or errors.

  6. Enter Your Password: To confirm the change, enter your Facebook account password.

  7. Submit the Request: Click or tap "Review Change," then "Save Changes" to finalize and submit name change request.

This process works similarly if you want to edit Facebook profile name.

What Comes After Changing Your Name on FB

After completing the Facebook name edit, be prepared for the following:

  • Your contacts may receive an alert about your identity change, based on privacy configurations.

  • Your updated name will appear on all your previous posts, comments, and tags. 

  • Remember, you won't have the option to change your name Facebook for the next 60 days.

  • In certain situations, Facebook might ask for additional details or proof to verify new name.

After you change your username on Facebook, there are a few things you should expect. First, Facebook will review name change to ensure it complies with their community standards. The operation might necessitate up to a full day to complete, but usually, it's much quicker. During this time, the old username will persist in appearing on your profile.

If you're managing any pages or groups, new name will be reflected there as well, however, it could require a brief period for the update to propagate across all parts of Facebook. Your friends may also receive a notification about the name change, depending on their notification settings.

Lastly, keep in mind that some of your friends might not immediately recognize you with your new name, so you may need to inform them about the change personally to avoid confusion.

How Many Times Can You Change Your Name on Facebook?

While social media allows users to update their identities, it's worth noting that this feature comes with some inherent constraints.

Currently, the policy allows for a change your name Facebook action once in a 60-day period. This restriction aims to deter misuse, like evading detection or assuming false identities.

You will need to wait 60 days before you can update your Facebook name again.

Be aware that these policies are subject to change, and Facebook may update its guidelines periodically. Consistently consult the latest guidelines available on Facebook's help center if you have specific questions about identity change frequencies or other related issues.

Conclusion

By becoming familiar with the method and important factors involved in how to modify display name on Facebook account, you can effectively modify Facebook identity and keep online presence consistent.

This guide provides you with all the necessary information whether you're looking to change the nickname, perform a Facebook nickname change, edit your Facebook name, or change Facebook username. Remember, your username is a fundamental part of your digital presence, so take the time to get it right when you change your name Facebook.

Keep in mind that process to edit your name in Facebook may be subject to social media's ongoing policy updates.