How to Change Your Facebook Name: Simple Steps to Update Your Name on Facebook

Created 12 January, 2024
facebook on desktop

Updating your name on Facebook is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the correct steps to avoid restrictions or errors. Facebook allows users to change their names a few times, but with certain limits and conditions. In this article, we’ll discuss how you can change your Facebook name, the steps required to complete the process, and the rules you need to follow to ensure that the change is approved. Additionally, we’ll provide solutions for any problems you might encounter during this process.

Steps to Change Your Facebook Name on Desktop

  1. Access account settings: Log in to your Facebook account and click on the menu icon (the small triangle) at the top right corner of the page. Select "Settings & Privacy" and then "Settings."
  2. Go to the name section: In the left-hand menu, click on "Personal Information." Here you will see the "Name" section, where your current name is displayed.
  3. Change your name: Click "Edit" next to the "Name" section. Enter your new first name, last name, and optionally, a middle name in the available fields.
  4. Save changes: After entering your new name, double-check it for accuracy. Click "Review Change" and then "Save Changes."

How to Change Your Facebook Name on Mobile

  1. Open the Facebook app: Log in to your account and go to the menu (the three lines at the bottom right of the screen).
  2. Access account settings: Scroll down and select "Settings & Privacy" then "Settings".
  3. Go to the name section: Under "Personal Information" select "Name".
  4. Enter the new name: Modify your desired name by entering your new first and last name in the respective fields.
  5. Save changes: Tap "Review Change" and confirm the update by selecting "Save Changes"

Rules and Restrictions

  1. The name must be real: Facebook requires users to use their real name—the name friends and family recognize them by.
  2. Character restrictions: Names cannot include symbols, numbers, or unusual punctuation. Titles (such as Dr., Mr., etc.) are also not allowed in the name fields.
  3. Limited name changes: You can only change your name a few times, and there’s a 60-day waiting period between name changes.
  4. Name verification: In rare cases, Facebook may ask for documents to verify your real name (e.g., an ID card).

How to Troubleshoot Issues with Changing Your name

  1. Name change is not approved: If Facebook rejects your name change, you might have violated one of the rules listed above. Double-check the guidelines and ensure your name follows Facebook’s requirements.
  2. Can’t change the name due to time restrictions: If you’ve recently changed your name, you will need to wait 60 days before making another modification.
  3. Technical issues: If you’re experiencing technical problems, try accessing your account from a different device or updating your Facebook app to the latest version.
  4. Compromised account: If you notice suspicious activity and can’t modify your name, your account may have been compromised. In this case, change your password immediately and secure your account with two-factor authentication.
facebook on phone

No, Facebook does not allow special characters, symbols, or numbers in your name for personalization. The platform enforces these restrictions to ensure authenticity and to prevent the misuse of names, keeping them as close as possible to a real-world identity.

While Facebook does allow name changes, you are limited in how frequently you can update it. After changing your name, you must wait 60 days before making another modification. This limit is in place to prevent constant alterations that could confuse friends or the platform’s system.

If your new Facebook name doesn’t appear immediately on your profile, it may take some time to process the change. Typically, the update should be visible within a few minutes, but in rare cases, it could take longer. If the delay persists, try logging out and back into your account, or clearing your browser’s cache to see if the change takes effect.