Updating your player handle in League of Legends doesn't require a web browser or a support ticket anymore. Riot Games transitioned all accounts to the Riot ID system, which means changing your in-game name is now completely free and managed directly through your account dashboard.
Whether you're tired of an old moniker or want a fresh start on the Rift, updating your handle takes less than two minutes. Let's look at how the system works now, how to avoid cooldown locks, and what rules govern your new identity.
Accessing Your Riot Account Management
League of Legends no longer uses the old standalone "summoner name" system that charged in-game currency or RP for edits. Your identity is now tied to your universal Riot ID, which consists of a game name and a tag line (for example, PlayerName#NA1).
To change it, you need to sign in to your profile on the web or through your Riot client settings:
- Close your active match or wait until you're out of champion select, then open your web browser or click the account settings gear in the Riot client.
- Navigate to the official Riot Account Management page.
- Log in using your username, password, or connected social accounts like Google or Apple. You may need to complete a two-factor authentication prompt if you have it enabled.
- Once you're inside the dashboard, locate the Riot ID tab on the left sidebar. This page displays your current game name and tag line.
Changing Your Game Name and Tag
Once you're staring at the account management page, editing your handle is straightforward. Click the edit pencil icon next to your current game name.
Type your new desired name into the box. Keep in mind that your game name can be anywhere from 3 to 16 characters long. You can also change your tag line if you want, though most players leave the region-based tag alone unless they want a custom alphanumeric suffix.
When you're happy with your choice, click Save Changes. The system updates immediately. The next time you launch League of Legends or finish your current client session, your new name will appear on your profile, in chat, and on the loading screen for your teammates and opponents.
Understanding the 365-Day Cooldown Rule
You can't cycle through cool handles every week. Riot enforces a strict 365-day cooldown on Riot ID changes to prevent identity confusion and harassment.
When you change your name, a countdown timer starts immediately. You can see the exact date when you'll be eligible for your next change directly under the Riot ID settings tab. If you try to change it before that year is up, the system will block the update.
Plan ahead: Pick something you'll be happy with for a long time, because you won't be able to fix typos or regret your choice for an entire year once you hit save.
Naming Policies and Restrictions
Your new handle has to comply with Riot's terms of service and behavioral guidelines. Automated filters and player reports flag accounts that break these rules:
- Hate Speech and Profanity: Any offensive terms, slurs, or vulgar language will get your name forcefully reset by support.
- Impersonation: You can't pretend to be Riot employees, official moderators, or well-known esports professionals.
- Personal Information: Avoid using real-world phone numbers, email addresses, or physical locations in your handle for your own privacy and security.
If your chosen name violates these rules, Riot reserves the right to revert it to a temporary alphanumeric string and issue a temporary chat restriction or ban depending on the severity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is changing my name in League of Legends free?
Yes. Since Riot migrated accounts to the unified Riot ID system, changing your game name and tag line is entirely free once every 365 days.
Does changing my Riot ID change my name in Valorant or other Riot games?
Yes. Your Riot ID is your universal login and display identity across all Riot Games titles, including Valorant, Teamfight Tactics, Legends of Runeterra, and Wild Rift. Changing it updates your name everywhere.
Can I bypass the 365-day cooldown timer?
No. Riot Support agents cannot manually reset or bypass the one-year cooldown timer for player name changes under normal circumstances.
What happens to my friends list when I change my name?
Nothing bad. Your friends on your list will still see you, though a small notification or your updated handle will appear in their client. They won't have to re-add you.
