Changing your name on Facebook takes less than two minutes if you follow the correct path through your account settings. Whether you've recently married, want to use a preferred nickname, or need to correct a spelling error, Meta allows you to update your profile name directly from mobile apps or a computer browser.
You can't change your name whenever you want without restriction, though. Meta enforces a strict 60-day lockout period once you update it, and your new moniker must comply with community standards regarding symbols, numbers, and professional titles.
Where to Find Name Settings on Facebook
The navigation path depends on whether you're using an iPhone, an Android device, or a desktop computer. Meta frequently updates its interface, so menu labels shift slightly depending on your app version.
On Mobile Devices (iOS and Android)
- Open the Facebook app and tap your profile menu icon (the hamburger menu or your profile picture in the bottom right on iOS or top right on Android).
- Scroll down and tap Settings & Privacy, then tap Settings.
- Tap Accounts Center near the top of the screen. This hub manages profile details across both Facebook and Instagram.
- Tap Profiles and select your Facebook account.
- Tap Name, enter your desired updates, and tap Review Change.
On a Computer Browser
- Log into facebook.com and click your profile picture in the top right corner.
- Select Settings & privacy, then click Settings.
- Click Accounts Center in the left-hand column.
- Click Profiles, then choose your Facebook account.
- Click Name, make your adjustments, and click Review Change.
Rules and Restrictions You Must Follow
Facebook rejects names that don't look like real people's names or violate formatting rules. Before you submit your new moniker, make sure it avoids these common pitfalls:
- Numbers, symbols, or unusual capitalization (like random all-caps).
- Characters from multiple languages mixed together.
- Titles of any kind, whether professional, religious, or royal (such as Dr., Rev., or Sir).
- Words or phrases in place of a name, or offensive terms.
If your name violates these guidelines, the system flags the request or demands identity verification. For more details on what's allowed, check out the official Facebook Help Center.
What Happens After You Submit Your Change?
Once you tap save, your profile updates immediately for most users. However, several critical restrictions kick in right away:
- The 60-Day Lock: You cannot change your name again for 60 days. Choose carefully before hitting submit, because support agents rarely override this restriction.
- Previous Names: Your friends can still see your previous names if they check your profile's About info, unless you manually hide them.
- Page Associations: If you manage a Facebook Page tied to your personal profile, changing your personal name won't automatically alter the Page name, which follows a separate approval process.
How to Add an Alias or Maiden Name
If you don't want to change your primary legal name but want friends from school or family to recognize you, add an alternate name instead of altering your main profile.
- Go to your Facebook profile page and click or tap About.
- Select Details about you.
- Look for the Other names section and click the Add a nickname, a birth name... option.
- Choose the type of name from the dropdown menu (such as Maiden name, Nickname, or Former name).
- Type your name, check the box next to Show at top of profile if you want it displayed right beside your main name in parentheses, and click Save.
What to Do If Facebook Rejects Your Name Change
Sometimes automated filters block legitimate name updates, especially if you're reverting to a maiden name or using a culturally distinct spelling. When this happens, Facebook prompts you to upload a government-issued identification document, such as a passport or driver's license.
To clear this hurdle successfully, photograph your ID on a flat, dark surface with good lighting, ensuring all text remains clear and unblurred. Meta reviews these submissions within 24 to 48 hours and deletes the uploaded file from their servers shortly after verification is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my Facebook name without waiting 60 days?
No. Meta enforces the 60-day waiting period without exception for standard user accounts. Customer support cannot bypass this restriction, so you must wait out the timer if you misspell your name.
Why won't Facebook let me use my preferred nickname?
Facebook requires names to reflect what friends and family call you in everyday life. If the system flags your entry as a fake name, it will block the change until you provide official identification matching that exact spelling.
Do my friends get notified when I change my name?
No. Facebook doesn't send out an alert or notification to your friends list when you update your name, though people viewing your timeline will see the new version immediately.
Can I use special characters or accents?
Yes, characters from your native language's alphabet are allowed, provided they don't violate the rule against symbols, punctuation marks, or numbers.
How do I change my name on the Facebook Lite app?
The process is identical to the main app. Open settings, navigate to Accounts Center, select your profile, and tap your name to edit it.
