To rename a document in Google Docs, click the document title in the top-left corner, type the new name, and press Enter. The change saves automatically and also updates the file’s name in Google Drive. You can also rename it from Drive without opening it: right-click the file and choose Rename.
Quick Answer
Click the title at the top left > type a new name > Enter.
Rename From Inside the Document
- Open the document in Google Docs.
- Click the title (it says “Untitled document” for new files).
- Type the new name.
- Press Enter or click back into the document.
You can also use File > Rename.
Other Ways to Rename
| Where | How |
|---|---|
| Google Drive (computer) | Right-click the file > Rename, or select it and press N |
| Google Drive app (phone) | Tap ⋮ next to the file > Rename |
| Google Docs app (phone) | Tap ⋮ next to the file in the list > Rename |
Naming Tips
- Put the most important word first, such as the client or project name.
- Use dates in year-month-day order (2026-09-27) so files sort correctly.
- Keep names short enough to read in Drive’s list view.
To customize your document further, learn how to change a Google Doc’s page color.
Troubleshooting
- Can’t click the title: You have view or comment access only. Ask the owner for edit access, or use File > Make a copy and rename your copy.
- Name changed back: Someone else with edit access may have renamed it. Check File > Version history.
- Want a copy in another language instead? See how to translate a document in Google Docs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does renaming break shared links?
No. Links use the file’s ID, so they keep working.
Do collaborators see the new name?
Yes. Everyone with access sees the updated name.
Can I rename a document I don’t own?
Yes, if you have edit access.
Summary
- Click the title at the top left.
- Type the new name and press Enter.
- Or rename from Drive with right-click > Rename.
- Links keep working after a rename.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.