can you change your name on pokemon go

3 min read 15-04-2025

Meta Description: Want to change your Pokémon GO username? This comprehensive guide explains if and how you can change your trainer name in Pokémon GO, outlining the process, limitations, and any potential workarounds. Learn about the one-time name change and what to do if you've already used it.

Pokémon GO has captivated millions with its augmented reality gameplay. Creating your trainer profile is one of the first steps, and choosing a name is a significant part of that. But what happens if you regret your initial choice? Can you change your name on Pokémon GO? The short answer is: yes, but with limitations. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about changing your Pokémon GO username.

Understanding Pokémon GO's Name Change Policy

Pokémon GO allows you to change your trainer name only once. This is a one-time opportunity, so choose wisely! After you've used your name change, there's no going back. Niantic, the developers, implemented this policy to prevent players from abusing the system (e.g., creating offensive names and changing them repeatedly).

How to Change Your Name in Pokémon GO

The process itself is straightforward:

Open the Pokémon GO app: Launch the game on your smartphone.
Access the Main Menu: Tap on your trainer profile picture located in the top left corner of the screen.
Navigate to Settings: Find and select the "Settings" option. This is usually represented by a gear icon.
Locate the Name Change Option: Scroll through the settings until you find "Trainer Profile." Within this section, you should see the option to change your name. It might be labeled as “Change Nickname” or something similar.
Enter Your New Name: Type your desired name into the field provided. Make sure it complies with Pokémon GO's naming guidelines (more on that below).
Confirm Your Change: Once satisfied, confirm your name change. You may be prompted to confirm again to avoid accidental changes.

Pokémon GO Name Change Guidelines: What's Allowed?

Before you excitedly type in your new name, be aware of Pokémon GO's restrictions. These guidelines are in place to maintain a positive and safe community. Generally, your name should:

Be appropriate: Avoid offensive, hateful, or sexually suggestive language.
Not impersonate another player: Don't use a name that could be confused with an existing player.
Adhere to character limits: There are usually limits on the length of your name (check the in-game instructions).
Not include personal information: Don't include your address, phone number, or other private details.

Violating these guidelines can lead to your name change being rejected or even your account being suspended.

What if I've Already Used My Name Change?

Unfortunately, if you've already used your one-time name change, there's no official way to change it again. Niantic hasn't provided any alternative methods. Contacting Pokémon GO support might be an option, but they're unlikely to grant a second name change unless there's an exceptional circumstance (e.g., a security breach leading to your account being compromised).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How much does it cost to change my name?

A: Changing your name in Pokémon GO is free.

Q: Can I change my name more than once?

A: No, Pokémon GO allows only one name change per account.

Q: What happens if I choose an inappropriate name?

A: Your name change request may be rejected, and you might face account restrictions.

Q: My name change isn't working. What should I do?

A: Make sure you're following the steps correctly and that your chosen name complies with the guidelines. If problems persist, try restarting the app or contacting Pokémon GO support.

Conclusion

While changing your Pokémon GO name is possible, remember it's a one-time opportunity. Take your time to choose a name that you'll be happy with for the long term. By following the guidelines and understanding the limitations, you can successfully update your trainer profile and continue your Pokémon GO adventure.