Important Due to Covid-19, processing times for passports are taking longer than normal for both standard and expedited services.

Passport Name Change

If you have legally changed your name since your travel document was issued, it is a good idea to apply to have your name changed on your passport, as well. The application and supporting documents that you will submit depend on a couple of factors, so read carefully to make sure that you are submitting the correct information.

Currently, a passport application takes approximately 10 to 13 weeks to process. Requesting expedited service will get it processed in just 7 to 9 weeks. Getting your name changed faster requires you to visit a regional processing center to submit the form.

For those who are unable to go in person, a third party can be used to expedite a name change, such as a professional courier service.

Need to change your name on your passport fast? Read our recommendation for the best third party passport expediting service.

No matter which path you choose, there are critical steps to follow to make sure your passport name change application is processed quickly and accurately.

Complete Application Form

There are 3 possible application forms that can be used to change the name on a passport. Choose the form that best applies to your situation from the list below. The link will open a page where you can download the form and obtain instructions and tips for completing the application.

If you prefer, you can complete the application form online. When the page opens, agree to the disclaimer and click the "Submit" button. You will then choose the correct form.

If you have problems opening or completing the online form, you can still print the application.

Note: some applicants have encountered connection difficulties or problems with the online form accepting certain data. If this happens to you, download the correct application form and complete it offline.

Gather Supporting Documents

Below is a list of the supporting documents that you need to submit with the request for changing the name on your passport. Be sure to assemble the correct materials and documentation for your situation.

1. Passport Issued LESS THAN One Year Ago

passport
passport photo
evidence of name change

2. Passport Issued MORE THAN One Year Ago

passport
passport photo
evidence of name change

3. No Document to Prove Legal Name Change

passport
passport photo
3 public records with date and place of birth proving exclusive use of new name for at least 5 years

The documents submitted as evidence of your legal name change must be original copies or certified copies. Photocopies are never accepted.

Acceptable documents include:

a marriage certificate
a divorce decree
an adoption certificate,
a court order.

Driver's licenses and Social Security cards are not acceptable as proof of a legal name change.

Photocopies and notarized copies of documents are not acceptable for passport purposes. If you need to acquire a certified copy of your marriage certificate, you can do so through the vital records office of the state in which you were married.

For more information, visit Where to Write for Vital Records.

Package and Send

Both Forms DS-5504 and DS-82 can be mailed to the address printed on the applications. Place the completed applications, supporting documents, and payment fees in a protective packaging, such as a Tyvek envelope. It is recommended that you use a traceable delivery method.

If you need to use Form DS-11, you are required to appear in person at an application acceptance facility.

These are usually located in post offices, county and city clerk offices, and public libraries.

Call before visiting these offices to guarantee that the location is open and accepting applications.