Legal Name Change Documents for Passport after Marriage, Divorce, Adoption, or Other Reasons

Changing your name on a U.S. passport involves more than just updating your ID-it's a legal process that requires specific documents and forms based on your situation. Whether your name changed due to marriage, divorce, or a court order, knowing exactly what the requirements are can save you time and prevent delays.

Key Takeaways

• Three essential documents: your current passport, a certified legal name change document, and supporting ID records.
• Use Form DS-5504 (within 1 year), DS-82 (after 1 year), or DS-11 (if no valid passport).
• Mail or apply in person depending on form eligibility.
• Process takes 4 to 6 weeks or 2 to 3 weeks expedited.
• Update Social Security, DMV, banks, and other institutions after passport change.

What Is Needed to Change the Name in Your Passport

1. Certified legal name change proof

• Marriage certificate - A passport name change due to marriage is one of the most common reasons this request is made. In this case, the document required as evidence is a marriage certificate.


• Divorce decree - A person who has divorced and assumed a new legal name can submit the original or a certified copy of the divorce decree as evidence of this fact. Depending on the state, the document may have a different name such as Dissolution of Marriage Record.


• Adoption certificate - A Decree of Adoption is a legal document that is signed by a judge. It is a declaration of finalization of the adoption process. By this document, the relationship betweent the parent and child is established.


• Court order - Individuals who want to legally change their names other than by marriage, divorce or adoption can do so by applying for a court order. The process usually includes completing an application at a county clerk's office and paying a fee.


• Public records - It is possible to request a passport name change based solely on the use of a name. This is getting to be a more difficult and demanding process. At least 3 public records showing your date and place of birth that show exclusive use of your assumed name for at least 5 years are required if you do not have one of the documents listed above.

2. Current passport or citizenship evidence

Submit your most recent passport (DS-82) or provide proof of citizenship like a birth certificate (DS-11).

3. Supporting documents (if needed)

Use updated ID or Form DS-60 plus three public records showing name use (license, tax return, etc.).

4. Passport photo & application fee

Submit a compliant photo and pay standard/execution/expedite fees.

Which form should you complete?

How to submit your application

Mail-in vs. In-person

Use DS-5504 or DS-82 by mail if eligible; otherwise apply in person with DS-11.

What happens after submission

Receive new passport by trackable mail in 4 to 6 weeks (or 2 to 3 weeks expedited).

What to do next after your name is updated

• Update your name with the Social Security Administration.
• Notify DMV, banks, employers, insurance, and voter registration.

Why this process matters-and tips to avoid delays

• Use the correct form to prevent delays or rejections.
• Submit certified copies-not photocopies.
• Ensure your passport has at least 6 months' validity before international travel.

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