Choosing a baby name is one of the first big decisions new parents make, often filled with personal, cultural, or creative significance. But in California, not every name is allowed. State law imposes specific restrictions on how a child can be legally named, and if you get too imaginative, the state might just reject your pick.
These naming laws may seem strange, but they’re rooted in legal, practical, and even moral reasons. From bizarre symbols to offensive content, here’s a closer look at eight names that are banned in California — and why.
Why California Has Baby Naming Laws
In California, birth certificates must follow guidelines set by the Department of Public Health. The rules may vary slightly from county to county, but they’re enforced statewide. The biggest naming restrictions include:
- No symbols, numbers, emojis, or images
- Names must be written using the 26 letters of the English alphabet
- No obscenities or offensive language
- No names that may cause confusion or impersonation of public officials
The primary goal of these laws is to maintain a clear and functional civil registry. Names that can’t be entered into government databases, for example, become a legal nightmare. Others may be considered inappropriate, disruptive, or even harmful to a child’s well-being.
1. King
Although “King” may sound regal and commanding, it’s on California’s list of questionable baby names. While it’s technically possible to name your child “King” in some cases, any name that implies a title or rank — like “Judge,” “Queen,” or “Duke” — may be rejected. The concern is that such names can be misleading or appear to confer legal or noble status.
2. Jesus Christ
Whether used out of devotion or irony, naming your baby “Jesus Christ” is generally considered unacceptable in California. The name may be denied due to its religious significance, potential to offend, and potential for confusion or impersonation. California strives to prevent names that may be considered sacrilegious or disrespectful to widely held beliefs.
3. Santa Claus
“Santa Claus” is another name on California’s forbidden list. While it may seem cute or humorous, the state considers it problematic. Giving a child a name strongly associated with a well-known fictional or mythical figure can lead to confusion, teasing, or issues later in life. It’s also considered misleading in legal records.
4. III or 4Real
Using numbers or symbols in names — like “III” (Roman numerals) or stylized versions like “4Real” — is strictly prohibited under California law. The state only allows names that use the 26 alphabetical characters. So, while “John the Third” can be written out, you can’t use numeric shorthand or creative spellings involving digits.
5. Messiah
The name “Messiah” has stirred controversy across the U.S., and California is no exception. While some states allow it, California may reject the name due to its religious implications and perceived offensiveness. Names that imply divinity or messianic status are typically flagged for review or denial, especially if someone files a complaint.
6. Adolf Hitler
This one hardly needs explanation. Naming a child “Adolf Hitler” is not explicitly banned in California statutes, but officials would almost certainly reject it. The name is widely recognized as offensive and hateful, and courts across the U.S. have consistently upheld bans on names that are associated with hate speech or criminal notoriety.
7. @ (At Symbol)
One Chinese couple once tried to name their child “@” (the symbol), claiming it sounded like “love him” in Mandarin. While it made headlines internationally, such a name would never fly in California. Symbols — even if they carry cultural or linguistic significance — are strictly off-limits in names under California’s administrative code.
8. Emojis
In today’s digital age, some parents have attempted to give their babies emoji-inspired names. Whether as a joke or a form of modern expression, these pictographic characters are not allowed in California. State law mandates that names be composed only of English alphabet characters, which excludes emojis, icons, or any images.
What Happens If You Choose an Illegal Name?
If parents try to register an illegal or non-compliant name on a birth certificate, the request will be denied. In most cases, they’ll be asked to submit a corrected name that fits the state’s naming laws. If a dispute arises, the matter can escalate to family court.
While some names may get approved upon appeal, those involving symbols, titles, or offensive terms usually don’t stand a chance.
Conclusion
Naming your child is a deeply personal experience — but in California, it’s also a legal one. The state’s naming laws aren’t meant to stifle creativity but to ensure clarity, consistency, and respect in public records. Whether you’re aiming for unique or traditional, just be sure to check the rules before making it official. After all, your baby’s name is the first word they’ll carry with them for life — and in California, it has to follow the law.