To update your name on a US passport, you must submit the current passport, an original or certified copy of the legal name change document such as a marriage certificate or court order, and Form DS-82 if renewing by mail or Form DS-11 if applying for the first time or if the passport was issued before your 16th birthday. A recent passport photo and applicable fees are also required. Accurate documentation ensures smooth processing and prevents travel disruptions.
What Documents Are Required for a US Passport Name Change?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Current US Passport | To change the name on a current US passport, submit a completed Form DS-82 along with the original or certified copy of the legal name change document, such as a marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree. Include your current passport, a recent color passport photo, and the applicable passport renewal fee to ensure the request is processed efficiently. |
| 2 | Completed Form DS-5504 (if eligible) or Form DS-82/Form DS-11 | Submit a completed Form DS-5504 for a US passport name change if eligible, typically within one year of the name change, to avoid paying a fee. Alternatively, use Form DS-82 for routine renewals or Form DS-11 for new applicants or in cases where eligibility for DS-5504 is not met, accompanied by proof of legal name change such as a marriage certificate or court order. |
| 3 | Original or certified name change document (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order) | Original or certified name change documents such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order are required to update the name on a US passport. These documents must be official and government-issued to verify the legal name change accurately. |
| 4 | One passport photo (recent, color, meets requirements) | One recent, color passport photo that meets U.S. passport photo requirements is essential for a name change application, ensuring facial features are clearly visible, with a plain white or off-white background and no shadows. The photo must be 2x2 inches in size, taken within the last six months, and adhere to specific guidelines regarding head positioning and expression. |
| 5 | Proof of identity (government-issued photo ID, if submitting Form DS-11) | A government-issued photo ID, such as a valid driver's license or state ID card, is required as proof of identity when submitting Form DS-11 for a US passport name change. This ensures the applicant's identity matches the name change request and supports the processing of updated passport records. |
| 6 | Copy of identity document (front and back, if submitting by mail) | Submitting a US passport name change requires a clear copy of your identity document, such as a valid driver's license or government-issued ID, showing both the front and back if mailed. This ensures proper verification of identity and prevents processing delays during the passport update. |
| 7 | Applicable passport fee (if required) | When applying for a US passport name change, the applicable passport fee varies depending on the reason and timing of the change; if the name change is due to marriage and occurs within one year of passport issuance, no fee is required, but otherwise, a standard passport renewal fee applies. Required documentation includes the current passport, a certified name change document such as a marriage certificate or court order, and a completed passport application form. |
Understanding US Passport Name Change Requirements
To change your name on a US passport, you must provide specific legal documents that confirm the name change. These documents include a certified marriage certificate, court order, or a divorce decree that legally amends your name.
Your current passport must be surrendered along with the completed Form DS-82 or Form DS-5504, depending on how long ago your passport was issued. Proof of identity and a recent passport photo are also required to process the name update.
Eligibility Criteria for Changing Your Passport Name
Changing your name on a US passport requires meeting specific eligibility criteria to ensure the request is valid. Proper documentation and timing based on your current passport status are essential for a smooth name change process.
- Valid US Passport Holder - You must possess a currently valid or recently expired US passport issued within the last 15 years.
- Name Change Documentation - Submit an original or certified copy of legal name change evidence such as a marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree.
- Timing Restrictions - If your passport was issued less than one year ago, you generally cannot change the name and must apply for a new passport.
When Should You Update Your Passport Name?
Updating a US passport name is essential after any legal name change to ensure travel documents match identification. Common reasons include marriage, divorce, or court orders.
You should update your passport name promptly once the legal name change is finalized to avoid travel complications. Required documents include the original or certified name change certificate, your current passport, and a completed passport application form. Submission of these documents to the Department of State will initiate the update process.
Essential Documents Needed for Passport Name Change
To change the name on a US passport, essential documents include the current valid passport and legal proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree. A completed Form DS-82 or DS-5504 is necessary depending on the timing and circumstances of the change. Applicants must also provide a recent passport photo that meets official government specifications.
Proof of Name Change: Accepted Legal Documents
What documents can you provide as proof of name change for a US passport update? Accepted legal documents include a certified marriage certificate, a court order for name change, or a divorce decree that shows your new name. These documents must be original or certified copies issued by the relevant authority to ensure your US passport can be updated accurately.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process
Changing the name on a US passport requires submitting specific documents that verify the name change. A clear understanding of the application process helps ensure a smooth update of your passport details.
- Complete the Passport Renewal Form (DS-82) - Use this form if your passport is undamaged and you meet eligibility requirements for renewal by mail.
- Provide Evidence of Name Change - Include an original or certified copy of the legal name change document such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
- Submit Your Current Passport - Send your most recent US passport as proof of citizenship and identity along with your application.
- Include Passport Photos - Provide one color passport photo that meets US Department of State specifications for size and background.
- Pay the Applicable Fee - Include the required processing fee payment using an accepted payment method as detailed on the official form instructions.
Completing the Correct Passport Application Form
| Required Document | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Form DS-82 | Application for Renewal of a U.S. Passport by Mail, used if your current passport was issued within the last 15 years and you are changing your name. | Must be completed accurately with the updated name. Include your most recent passport. |
| Form DS-11 | Application for a U.S. Passport, required if your current passport was issued more than 15 years ago, you were under age 16 when issued, or if you do not have a passport. | Submit in person at a passport acceptance facility with proof of identity and citizenship. |
| Proof of Name Change | Legal documents such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing your new name. | Must be an original or certified copy. |
| Current Passport | Your most recent U.S. passport book or card. | Required when submitting Form DS-82. |
| Passport Photo | One recent color photo that meets passport photo guidelines. | 2x2 inches in size, taken within the last 6 months. |
Submitting Your Name Change Application: Where and How
Submitting your name change application for a US passport involves specific documents and protocols. Understanding where and how to apply ensures a smoother process.
- Application Submission Locations - You can submit the application at a passport acceptance facility or a regional passport agency depending on your urgency and location.
- Required Documents - Provide proof of citizenship, a current valid passport, and an original or certified name change document such as a marriage certificate or court order.
- Submission Methods - Applications are typically submitted in person or by mail, depending on the type of form and circumstances.
Prepare all documents carefully to avoid delays when submitting your name change application.
Fees and Processing Times for Passport Name Changes
To change the name on a US passport, applicants must submit a completed Form DS-82 or Form DS-11, along with legal documents supporting the name change such as a marriage certificate or court order. The fee for updating a passport name varies but typically ranges from $130 to $170, depending on the service type and delivery speed chosen. Processing times usually take 8 to 11 weeks for standard service, with expedited options available within 5 to 7 weeks for an additional fee.
What Documents Are Required for a US Passport Name Change? Infographic
