If you’ve rebranded your account, corrected a typo, or simply want a fresh identity, you may be wondering: how do you change your name on TikTok? TikTok allows users to update both their display name and username, but these are two different profile elements and have different rules.
Understanding the difference can help you make the right changes without affecting how people find your account. In this guide, we’ll explain how to change your TikTok name, update your username, and avoid common mistakes.
Display Name vs. Username
Before making changes, it’s important to understand the difference.
Display Name
Your display name:
- Appears at the top of your profile
- Can include spaces and special characters
- Does not need to be unique
- Is often used for branding or personal identification
Example:
Susan Wanjiru
Username
Your username:
- Appears after the @ symbol
- Must be unique
- Is used in your TikTok profile URL
- Helps others search for and tag your account
Example:
@susanwanjiru
How to Change Your Display Name on TikTok
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Open TikTok.
- Go to your Profile.
- Tap Edit Profile.
- Select Name.
- Enter your new display name.
- Tap Save.
Your updated name should appear immediately on your profile.
How to Change Your Username
Steps
- Open TikTok.
- Go to Profile.
- Tap Edit Profile.
- Select Username.
- Enter your desired username.
- Check whether it’s available.
- Tap Save.
If the username is already taken, you’ll need to choose another variation.
How Often Can You Change Your Username?
TikTok generally limits username changes to once every 30 days.
If you’ve recently changed your username, you may need to wait before updating it again.
Display names can usually be changed more frequently.
What Happens When You Change Your Username?
Changing your username affects:
- Your TikTok profile URL
- How people tag you
- Search visibility
- Shared profile links
For example:
Old URL:
tiktok.com/@oldusername
New URL:
tiktok.com/@newusername
Anyone using the old link may no longer reach your profile.
Will I Lose Followers If I Change My Name?
No.
Changing your display name or username does not remove:
- Followers
- Likes
- Videos
- Comments
- Account history
Your account remains the same; only the name changes.
Tips for Choosing a TikTok Name
Keep It Easy to Remember
Short, simple names are easier for people to find and share.
Stay Consistent Across Platforms
Using the same name on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and other social platforms can strengthen your personal brand.
Avoid Excessive Numbers
Too many random numbers can make usernames harder to remember.
Consider Future Branding
Choose a name that will still fit your content if your account grows or evolves.
Why Can’t I Change My Name?
Several issues may prevent changes.
Username Change Limit Reached
You may need to wait until the 30-day period has passed.
Username Already Taken
TikTok requires each username to be unique.
App Needs Updating
An outdated version of TikTok may cause profile editing issues.
Temporary Technical Problem
Restarting the app or logging out and back in may help.
Can You Change Your Name Back?
Yes.
As long as:
- The username is available.
- You meet TikTok’s timing requirements.
You can switch back to a previous name later.
Common Problems
Save Button Doesn’t Work
Check your internet connection and ensure the name follows TikTok’s guidelines.
Username Unavailable
Try:
- Adding a keyword
- Using an underscore
- Including a brand identifier
Profile Link Changed
This is normal when you change your username, since the URL is tied to your @ handle.
Followers Can’t Find Me
Notify followers about the change if you’ve updated a well-known username.
ALSO READ: How to change your profile picture on TikTok
