Can I name my kid royal?

Can You Really Name Your Child "Royal"?

It’s a question that sparks both curiosity and a few chuckles: can you actually name your kid Royal? In the United States, where naming freedom is largely protected, the answer isn’t quite as straightforward as you might think. While American parents enjoy broad liberty in choosing names—some opt for unique spellings, celebrity-inspired picks, or even brand names—there are limits. Courts in some states have stepped in to ban certain names deemed inappropriate, offensive, or simply too absurd for official records.

As of June 2025, eleven names have been officially prohibited across various states. These include King and Queen, likely due to their regal connotations and potential for confusion, though interestingly, Royal hasn’t made the banned list—at least not yet. Other names ruled off-limits include Jesus Christ, Majesty, Adolf Hitler, and even Nutella, after a French court case made international headlines. Some bans stem from concerns over a child’s welfare, while others target names that could invite mockery or social stigma.

Still, naming laws vary by state. While Texas banned Messiah due to religious sensitivity, other places might allow it. Symbols like @ or numeric names such as 1069 have also been rejected for practical and legal reasons. Courts often argue that a name shouldn’t set a child up for embarrassment or administrative chaos.

So yes, Royal is still fair game—for now. But while creativity is celebrated, parents might want to consider how a name could shape a child’s experience long before they can decide for themselves.