Passport Name Change – Requirements, Forms & How to Apply

Changing your name on a passport is required if your legal name no longer matches your current passport. This often happens after marriage, divorce, or a court-ordered name change.

The process depends on when your passport was issued, and using the correct form is key to avoiding delays.

How to Change Your Name on a Passport?

To change your name on a U.S. passport, you must submit the correct form (DS-5504, DS-82, or DS-11), provide your current passport, include a certified name change document (such as a marriage certificate or court order), and submit a new passport photo.

Which Form Do You Need?

The form you use depends on how recently your passport was issued.

If Your Passport Was Issued Less Than 1 Year Ago

• Use Form DS-5504
• No fee required (unless expedited)
• Submit by mail
• Provide certified name change document

This is the fastest and simplest option.

If Your Passport Was Issued More Than 1 Year Ago

• Use Form DS-82 (Renewal)
• Submit by mail
• Pay standard renewal fees
• Include name change document

You must send your current passport with your application.

If You Are Not Eligible to Renew by Mail

• Use Form DS-11
• Apply in person
• Bring all documents and ID
• Pay full application + execution fees

This applies if your passport is expired, damaged, or cannot be renewed.

What You Need (Checklist)

Before applying, gather all required documents to avoid delays.

• Completed application form (DS-5504, DS-82, or DS-11)
• Current U.S. passport
• Certified name change document:
  • Marriage certificate
  • Divorce decree
  • Court order
• Passport photo (2×2 inches)
• Fees (if applicable)

Certified documents are required—photocopies are not accepted.

How to Change Your Name on a Passport (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Choose the Correct Form

Select DS-5504, DS-82, or DS-11 based on your situation.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect your passport, legal name change documents, and photo.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

• Mail your application (DS-5504 or DS-82)
• Or apply in person (DS-11)

Step 4: Receive Your Updated Passport

Your new passport will reflect your updated legal name.

Changing your name on a passport is required if your legal name no longer matches your current passport. This often happens after marriage, divorce, or a court-ordered name change.

The process depends on when your passport was issued, and using the correct form is key to avoiding delays.

How to Change Your Name on a Passport?

To change your name on a U.S. passport, you must submit the correct form (DS-5504, DS-82, or DS-11), provide your current passport, include a certified name change document (such as a marriage certificate or court order), and submit a new passport photo.

Which Form Do You Need?

The form you use depends on how recently your passport was issued.

If Your Passport Was Issued Less Than 1 Year Ago

• Use Form DS-5504
• No fee required (unless expedited)
• Submit by mail
• Provide certified name change document

This is the fastest and simplest option.

If Your Passport Was Issued More Than 1 Year Ag

• Use Form DS-82 (Renewal)
• Submit by mail
• Pay standard renewal fees
• Include name change document

You must send your current passport with your application.

If You Are Not Eligible to Renew by Mail

• Use Form DS-11
• Apply in person
• Bring all documents and ID
• Pay full application + execution fees

This applies if your passport is expired, damaged, or cannot be renewed.

What You Need (Checklist)

Before applying, gather all required documents to avoid delays.

• Completed application form (DS-5504, DS-82, or DS-11)
• Current U.S. passport
• Certified name change document:
  • Marriage certificate
  • Divorce decree
  • Court order
• Passport photo (2×2 inches)
• Fees (if applicable)

Certified documents are required—photocopies are not accepted.

How to Change Your Name on a Passport (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Choose the Correct Form

Select DS-5504, DS-82, or DS-11 based on your situation.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect your passport, legal name change documents, and photo.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

• Mail your application (DS-5504 or DS-82)
• Or apply in person (DS-11)

Step 4: Receive Your Updated Passport

Your new passport will reflect your updated legal name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Need Help Changing Your Name on a Passport?

Name change applications can be delayed if documents are missing or incorrect. Getting help can speed up the process and prevent mistakes.

• Application review
• Document guidance
• Expedited processing support

Get Help With Your Passport Name Change