Change Your Name in Your U.S. Passport

There are very specific requirements and steps that must be completed in order to change your name in your U.S. passport. There are a few scenarios that the United States Department of States outlines along with procedures.

• There are no fees associated with this service; however, there is a fee if you require expedited service.
• It is recommended that any documents mailed for the purpose of passport name change be mailed through delivery methods which are trackable.

These details should provide you with the basic information you need to get started with the passport name change process. You can find additional information on the U.S. Department of State website.

Change Your Name in Your U.S. Passport

There are very specific requirements and steps that must be completed in order to change your name in your U.S. passport. There are a few scenarios that the United States Department of States outlines along with procedures.

If your passport issue date was less than one year ago AND you have had a name-change because of marriage or court order...

You must submit the following information:

• Your current U.S. passport (must be valid at the time of submission)
• Completed Form DS-5504, Application for U.S. Passport: Name Change, Data Correction, and Limited Passport Book Replacement
• An original copy of your marriage certificate or a certified copy thereof OR the government-issued documentation showing that you have changed your name legally under state or federal law.
• In some cases you may be required to submit a recent photograph as well (check with State Department for details).
• There are no fees associated with this service; however, there is a fee if you require expedited service.
• It is recommended that any documents mailed for the purpose of passport name change be mailed through delivery methods which are trackable.

If your passport was issued more than one year ago AND you have had a name-change because of marriage or court order...

You must mail the following documentation:

• Your current U.S. passport (must be valid at the time of submission)
• Completed Form DS-82, Application for U.S. Passport by Mail
• Renewal fees
• An original copy of your marriage certificate or a certified copy thereof OR the government-issued documentation showing that you have changed your name legally under state or federal law.
• Recent color photograph

If you are unable to provide legal documentation for your name change (either through marriage or court order) OR are under sixteen years of age whose passport was issued over 12 months ago...

You must provide the following documentation, in person, at a designated facility or agency:

• Your current U.S. passport (must be valid at the time of submission)
• Completed Form DS-11, Application for U.S. passport.
• Applicable fees
• You must provide at least three public records which include information about your place and date of birth which also show the exclusive use of your changed name for at least five years.
• Recent color photograph

These details should provide you with the basic information you need to get started with the passport name change process. You can find additional information on the U.S. Department of State website.

Before You Begin

Changing your name on a U.S. passport is a straightforward process when you have the right documents in hand. Before gathering your materials, take a moment to determine which category applies to your situation--the requirements differ based on when your passport was issued and whether you have legal documentation for your name change.

Helpful Tips for a Smooth Process

Make photocopies of all documents before mailing them. While you'll need to send originals or certified copies, having backups for your records can save time if anything goes missing.

Double-check that your current passport is undamaged and hasn't expired. A passport that's been significantly damaged or is no longer valid may require a different application process.

Write legibly and review your forms carefully before submitting. Errors or incomplete information can delay processing.

If you've also changed your address, update that information at the same time to ensure your new passport arrives at the correct location.

Processing Times

Standard processing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks, though times can vary based on demand. Expedited service is available for an additional fee and reduces processing time to approximately 2 to 3 weeks. If you have upcoming travel plans, factor in these timelines and consider expedited service if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel while my passport is being processed?
No. Because you must submit your current passport with your application, you will not have a valid passport for international travel until your new one arrives. Plan accordingly.

What if I need to travel urgently?
Contact the National Passport Information Center or visit a regional passport agency for emergency or urgent travel services.

Will my passport number change?
Yes. When your name is updated, you will receive a new passport with a new number. Be sure to update any travel accounts, trusted traveler programs, or airline reservations with your new information once it arrives.

Do I need to update my passport if I got married but kept my original name?
No. You only need to update your passport if your legal name has changed.

After You Receive Your New Passport

Once your updated passport arrives, take the following steps: verify that all information is correct, store your passport in a safe and secure location, and update your name with airlines, hotels, and any trusted traveler programs such as Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.