How to Change Your Name on a U.S. Passport

If you have legally changed your name due to marriage, divorce, court order, or another reason, you must update your U.S. passport before traveling internationally. Your passport name must match your current legal name exactly to avoid airline issues, travel delays, or denial of boarding.

This guide explains how to change your name on a U.S. passport, which form to use, what documents are required, and how long the process takes.

When You Need to Change the Name on Your Passport

You should apply for a passport name change if:

• You recently got married and changed your last name
• You divorced and reverted to a previous name
• You changed your name by court order
• Your passport contains an error in your name

Airlines require your ticket name to match your passport exactly, so updating your passport is essential before booking travel.

Documents Required for a Passport Name Change

To change your name on a U.S. passport, you will typically need:

• Your current U.S. passport
• Legal proof of name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order)
• One recent passport photo that meets U.S. passport requirements
• The correct passport application form
• Applicable passport fees (if required)

All name change documents must be original or certified copies.

Which Passport Form Should You Use?

The correct form depends on when your passport was issued and your situation.

Form DS-5504

Use this form if:

• Your passport was issued less than one year ago
• You need to correct or update your name
• No passport renewal fee is required (expedited service costs extra)

This is the most common form used for passport name changes

Form DS-82

Use this form if:

• Your passport was issued more than one year ago
• You are eligible to renew by mail
• You have legal proof of your name change

Form DS-11

Use this form if:

• Your passport is expired for more than 5 years
• Your passport was issued more than 15 years ago
• You cannot document your name change
• Your passport was lost or stolen

This form requires applying in person at a passport acceptance facility.

Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Name on a Passport

Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Collect your passport, proof of name change, a passport photo, and the correct application form.

Step 2: Complete the Application
Fill out the form carefully and ensure all information matches your legal documents exactly.

Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications can be submitted by mail or in person, depending on the form you are using.

Step 4: Pay the Required Fees
Fees vary based on the application form and whether you choose routine or expedited processing.

Step 5: Wait for Processing
Standard processing usually takes several weeks. Expedited service is available for an additional fee.

Passport Name Change – Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel with my old passport after a name change?

You may be able to travel with your old passport if your airline ticket matches the passport name and you carry your legal name change document. However, updating your passport before travel is strongly recommended.

What if I changed my name but do not have legal documentation?

You must apply in person using Form DS-11 and provide additional identity documentation.

How long does a passport name change take?

Processing times vary based on demand and service type. Expedited service shortens the wait time.

Do I need to change my passport name after marriage?

Yes. If you legally changed your name after marriage and plan to travel internationally, your passport should be updated so it matches your legal name and airline ticket.

Can I change my passport name online?

No. Passport name changes cannot be completed online. You must submit a paper application by mail or apply in person, depending on the form you are required to use.

How much does it cost to change a name on a passport?

The cost depends on the form you use and whether your passport was issued less than one year ago. Some name changes are free, while others require standard passport renewal fees. Expedited service costs extra.

Can I expedite a passport name change?

Yes. Expedited service is available for passport name changes for an additional fee. This option is recommended if you have upcoming travel.

Do I need a new passport number after a name change?

Yes. When your passport is reissued with a new name, it will have a new passport number.

Can I change only my last name on my passport?

Yes. You may change only your last name if that is the only part of your legal name that has changed. The process and documentation remain the same.

What if my name change document is not in English?

If your legal name change document is in a foreign language, you must submit a certified English translation along with the original document.

Can I travel while my passport name change is being processed?

No. Your passport will be retained during processing, so you will not be able to travel internationally until you receive your updated passport.

Does my passport name have to match my Social Security record?

Yes. Updating your Social Security record before applying helps prevent processing delays and application rejections.

Can I change my child’s name on a passport?

Yes. A child’s passport name can be changed, but additional documentation and in-person application requirements apply for minors.

What happens if my passport name does not match my airline ticket?

If the names do not match exactly, airlines may deny boarding. Always update your passport before booking international travel.

Can I correct a spelling error in my passport name?

Yes. Name corrections due to government printing errors can often be corrected at no cost using the appropriate passport form.