If you’re looking to change the name on your passport—congratulations! Whether due to marriage, divorce, or another reason, updating your name on important documents can feel overwhelming. When I got married in 2017, the sheer number of name changes I had to make was mind-boggling!
In this guide, we’ll simplify the process of changing the name on your passport so you can get back to focusing on what matters—travel (and life) made easier.
Who Needs a Passport Name Change?
There are various reasons why you might need to update the name on your passport. Some of the most common include:
- Marriage: If you’ve taken your spouse’s last name, it’s essential to update your passport to reflect your new legal name.
- Divorce: If you’ve chosen to revert to your maiden name, you’ll need to update your passport to ensure all travel documents reflect your current legal name.
- Legal Name Change: For those who have changed their name for personal reasons, you’ll want to make sure your passport matches your new name.
- Gender Transition: If you’ve undergone a gender transition and changed your name to align with your gender identity, updating your passport is a necessary step.
Why Do You Need a Passport?
A passport is your key to international travel and is one of the most important legal documents you own. This guide assumes you already have a U.S. passport and are simply looking to update your name.
If you don’t have a passport yet and need help getting one, check out this guide for step-by-step instructions on how to apply.
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Review Any Upcoming Trips
- Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
- Step 3: Complete the Proper Passport Application
- Step 4: Get/Update Your Passport Photos
- Step 5: Decide if you want to pay for expedited service
- Step 6: Determine Your Passport Name Change Fee
- Step 7: Submit Application
- Step 8: Wait for Processing
- Step 9: Collect New Passport
Passport With Name Change: The Step-by-Step Guide
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of changing the name on your passport. Ready? Let’s get started!
Step 1: Review Your Upcoming Trips
Do you have any trips booked under your current (former) name? If so, wait until after your trip to change the name on your passport. All your travel documents—tickets, identification, and passport—must match. If you change your name on your passport before the trip, you may not be allowed to board your flight.
If you have no immediate travel plans, it’s best to get your new passport in hand before booking anything. Name changes can take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on whether you opt for expedited processing. Remember, your updated passport will come with a new passport number and expiration date, so having the updated information is key when booking future trips.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
You’ll need to gather the following documents before starting your application:
- Your current, unexpired U.S. passport
Submit your passport with your application. - Proof of your name change
This can be either the original or a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court-ordered name change document.
Step 3: Complete the Correct Passport Application
Depending on when your passport was issued, you’ll need to fill out one of the following forms:
- DS-5504 – If your passport was issued less than 1 one year ago
- DS-82 – If your passport was issued more than 1 one year ago
- DS-11 – If your passport has been expired for more than five years or was issued more than 15 years ago (you’ll need to apply for a new passport)
Step 4: Get Your Passport Photos
If you’re submitting your application by mail, you’ll need to include a new passport photo. You can get passport photos taken at places like CVS, Walgreens, The UPS Store, or AAA. Or, you can take one yourself, but it must follow strict U.S. Department of State guidelines:
| Taken less than six months ago | Head must face the camera directly with full face view |
| Head must be 1-1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head | No eyeglasses, head coverings, or uniforms (**Some exceptions**) |
| Use a plain white or off-white background | 2×2 inches in size |
| Print photo on matte or glossy photo paper quality | Do not apply any filters or edits to your picture (Except to remove red-eye) |
| Photos with rips, tears, scratches, or any other defects will not be accepted |
Step 5: Decide whether to pay for expedited service
Need your passport in a hurry? You can pay a $60 expedited service fee to shorten the processing time to 2-3 weeks.
If you’re not in a rush, standard processing (up to 6 weeks) is free. Be sure to apply early if you have upcoming travel plans!
Step 6: Calculate Your Passport Name Change Fees
he fee you’ll pay depends on which form you’re using:
- DS-82 or DS-11: $130 for a new passport book ($190 if expedited)
- DS-5504: No fee for routine service; expedited service is $60
If you need a passport card for travel to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, or the Caribbean, the fee is reduced.
Step 7: Submit Your Application
You can submit your application by mail or at a passport acceptance facility. When mailing your application, use a trackable service to ensure safe delivery. Include the following in a single envelope:
- Your current U.S. passport
- Proof of name change
- Completed application with your photo
- Payment for any applicable fees
It’s important to note that the address to which you mail the completed application will vary depending on your place of residence.
For Expedited Service, the National Passport Processing Center has a separate mailbox.
The different mailing addresses are as follows:
Routine Service
(if you live in CA, FL, IL, MN, NY, or TX)
National Passport Processing Center
P.O. Box 640155
Irving, TX 75064-0155
Routine Service
(if you live in any other state or Canada)
National Passport Processing Center
P.O. Box 90155
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155
Expedited Service
(From any state or Canada)
National Passport Processing Center
P.O. Box 90955
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0955
Step 8: Wait for Processing
Processing times can vary. For routine service, expect to wait 4-6 weeks. For expedited service, the timeframe is closer to 2-3 weeks. It’s always a good idea to apply well in advance of any planned travel to avoid potential delays.
Step 9: Receive Your Updated Passport
Once processing is complete, you’ll receive your updated passport in the mail, along with any original or certified name change documents you submitted. Keep in mind, these items may arrive in separate shipments.
Changing the name on your passport is an essential step in making sure all your travel documents reflect your updated identity. By following this step-by-step guide and staying organized, you’ll breeze through the process.
Once your new passport arrives, you’ll be ready to confidently embark on your next travel adventure! To keep things even more organized, consider using a cute passport holder. It not only has a designated slot for your COVID vaccination card but also helps keep your passport and other important documents secure in one place.
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Passport With Name Change FAQ’s
What is the difference between a passport book and a passport card?
A passport card can be used for international land and sea travel to Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean, and Canada.
A passport book (“traditional passport”) is a valid ID for all forms of travel — land, sea, and air — both internationally and domestically.
How long does it take to change the name on your passport?
It typically takes 4-6 weeks for routine processing and 2-3 weeks if you pay for expedited service. Processing times may vary depending on demand, so it’s best to apply early.
How much does it cost to change the name on a passport?
The cost depends on which form you use. For Form DS-82 or DS-11, the fee is $130, or $190 if expedited. For Form DS-5504, there is no charge for routine service, but expedited service costs $60.
Can I change my name on my passport online?
Currently, you cannot change your name on your passport online. You must submit a paper application either by mail or in person.
What documents are required to change the name on your passport?
You will need your current U.S. passport and an original or certified copy of your name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court-ordered name change document.
Do I need a new passport if I change my name?
Yes, you will need to apply for a new passport if your name has changed. This involves submitting an application, name change documents, and the necessary fees.
Can I travel with my old passport if I’ve changed my name?
If your tickets are booked under your old name and match your old passport, you can still travel. However, once you change your name, all travel documents—including your passport and flight booking—must match.
What happens if my passport expires before I change my name?
If your passport is expired, you’ll need to apply for a new one using Form DS-11, which includes the process for a name change.
Does a name change on my passport affect my TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?
Yes, you will need to update your name with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to match your new passport. Failing to do so could affect your ability to use these programs.
