Amended and original birth certificates to prove Daughters name change?

Question:  Hello, I live in New Jersey and I would like to obtain a passport for my daughter. I will be changing the name on her birth certificate based off of insurance records. We have never use the name on her birth certificate and we do not need a court order in New Jersey. We have gotten her a passport some time ago that has her original name. The same name that is on her birth certificate. Can I bring the amended and original birth certificates to prove her name change?

Answer:  Hello, you will have to provide two or three public record documents. These documents can be military, Medicare, tax, school, insurance, and employment records. Also, bank books and driver’s license. Two to three of these documents will help to prove the name has been use solely for your daughter the past 5 years.

With these documents, you will also have to provide a “Statement of Witness in Support of Change of Name.” Also, you will need two or more witnesses that know the applicant for at least five years. These witnesses must confirm that the applicant has been using the new name for at least five years. You can use friend, family or co-workers to come as witnesses. If you have not used the new name for 5 years, then it can be included as a “known as” if the supporting documentation proof is sufficient. Any witnesses will have to be present with you at the passport office and they will have to have their statements sworn in front of Consular Officer. You will also have to be sworn in to confirm the use of your new name. Witnesses should bring photo identification with them. Affidavits will be provided at no cost.

You can contact the National Passport Information Center if you have any other questions or confusions about this topic. The phone number for the National Passport Information Center is 1-877-487-2778.