16 Baby Names California Doesn’t Allow (and the Reasons Why)

Choosing a name for your newborn is a significant decision, one that carries cultural, familial, and personal weight. In California, however, not all names are created equal. The state has specific regulations that prohibit certain names, aiming to protect children from potential harm or mockery and ensure their identification is straightforward.

These restrictions are mostly based on practicality, legality, and decency. Some names are banned due to their bizarre spelling, offensive nature, or potential to cause confusion. Others are rejected for their associations with infamous figures or because they contain symbols not supported by government databases. Here, we explore sixteen names you can’t give your child in California, along with the reasons behind these prohibitions.

1. King

California doesn’t allow parents to name their child “King” due to its royal connotations. Naming a child with a title like “King” can imply a status that the individual does not possess, leading to social and legal complications. The state’s regulations aim to prevent confusion and maintain equality among citizens. Titles such as “Queen,” “Sir,” or “Duke” are similarly restricted, ensuring that names remain personal identifiers rather than symbols of power or nobility.

2. Jesus Christ

Naming a child “Jesus Christ” in California is prohibited as it can be seen as disrespectful or offensive to religious communities. The name carries a deep spiritual significance for many, and using it casually could lead to misunderstandings or offense. California aims to maintain respect for religious sentiments by barring names that could be seen as sacrilegious or deeply provocative.

3. 3rd

California forbids the use of numbers in names, such as “3rd,” to prevent confusion and complications in official records. Names with numeric characters could lead to errors in databases that are designed to process letters. This regulation ensures clarity and consistency across all state and federal systems, helping to avoid potential technical issues that could arise from unconventional naming practices.

4. @

The use of symbols like “@” in a name is not allowed in California. This is due to the incompatibility with standardized forms and databases that can’t process non-alphabetical characters. Such symbols could also cause confusion and misrepresentation in official documents. By prohibiting these characters, California ensures that names are clear and universally understandable in both personal and legal contexts.

5. Adolf Hitler

Names like “Adolf Hitler” are banned in California due to their association with infamous historical figures. Such names carry negative connotations and could lead to bullying or discrimination. The state seeks to protect children from potential social stigma by prohibiting names that are widely recognized as controversial or offensive, ensuring a more inclusive and respectful environment for all individuals.

6. Lucifer

The name “Lucifer” is not permitted in California due to its strong association with the devil in Christian theology. Such a name could provoke negative reactions or distress among peers and community members. California’s naming laws aim to foster a positive societal environment by avoiding names that might lead to unnecessary controversy or discomfort.

7. Messiah

California restricts names like “Messiah” due to their religious significance and the potential for causing offense. Naming a child with religious titles can be seen as presumptuous and may invite unwanted attention or backlash from religious communities. The state’s naming laws strive to respect religious beliefs and maintain harmony by avoiding names that might be seen as provocative.

8. Santa Claus

Naming a child “Santa Claus” is not allowed in California as it could lead to confusion and mockery. This name is strongly associated with a cultural and commercial figure, making it impractical for personal identification. By prohibiting such names, California ensures that individuals have unique and appropriate identities, free from the burden of living up to fictional or mythological standards.

10. Anus

The name “Anus” is banned in California due to its offensive nature and potential to cause embarrassment. Names that are explicitly vulgar or derogatory are prohibited to protect children from ridicule and to uphold societal decency. California aims to ensure that all citizens have names that are respectful and dignified, avoiding those that could lead to social or personal discomfort.

11. Duke

California prohibits names like “Duke” due to their connotations of nobility and status. Such titles can imply a hierarchy or social standing that the individual does not possess, creating potential social issues. The naming laws are designed to ensure equality and prevent the use of names that might suggest undue privilege or authority.

12. Queen

The name “Queen” is not allowed in California as it implies a rank or title that the individual doesn’t hold. Such names can create unrealistic expectations and social discomfort. The state’s naming regulations aim to prevent confusion and ensure that all names serve as personal identifiers, free from unnecessary implications of power or status.

13. Sir

California does not permit the name “Sir” as it is a title of respect and authority. Names that confer status or imply a formal rank are restricted to maintain social equality. The state’s laws ensure that names remain personal and free of titles that could lead to misinterpretations or social tensions.

14. Ivory

The use of “Ivory” as a first name is restricted in California due to potential racial sensitivities. Names that might be seen as racially provocative or problematic are avoided to maintain inclusivity and prevent any unintentional offense. The naming laws strive to ensure that all children have names that are respectful and culturally sensitive.

15. Mickey Mouse

California restricts names like “Mickey Mouse” to avoid commercial or trademark issues. Such names are strongly associated with popular culture and corporate brands, making them unsuitable for personal identification. The state’s regulations prevent potential legal complications and ensure that individuals have names free from commercial associations.

16. Nutella

The name “Nutella” is not permitted in California due to its association with a well-known brand. Naming a child after a brand can lead to commercial implications and social challenges. California’s naming laws aim to protect children from potential ridicule or trademark issues, ensuring that names are personal and distinct from commercial entities.