How to Update the Name on a Passport

Your vacation to Italy is only a few weeks away when you remember you didn't update your passport with your new name after your wedding. Your plans for romantic gondola rides and wine tastings are replaced by visions of begging customs agents to let you through the gate. Changing your name on your passport might not be at the top of your priority list after your wedding, divorce or legal name change, but the fact remains that passport renewals and changes take several weeks. It is far better to make the change and avoid a situation where you have to miss out on an vacation or work trip than to procrastinate further.

Instructions

  1. Update Names on Passports Issued Less Than One Year Ago

    • 1

      Obtain and complete form DS-5504, the application to correct or change a name on a passport (see Resources). This form is only available to those whose current passport is less than one year old.

    • 2

      Gather your current passport and certified copies of the forms documenting your legal name change, such as your divorce decree, marriage certificate or a court order.

    • 3

      Mail your application, passport and proof of name change to the U.S. Department of State at the address listed on form DS-5504. There is no fee to change the name on a passport issued less than one year before.

    Passports Issued More Than One Year Ago

    • 4

      Obtain and complete form DS-82 if your current passport was issued more than one year ago (see Resources).

    • 5

      Gather the required forms and documents needed to change your name on your passport. You'll need to include a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order for a name change, your current passport and two new passport photos.

    • 6

      Mail your application, current passport, new passport photos and your proof of name change to the address listed on form DS-82. Include a check or money order payable to the Department of State in the amount of $110, which is the passport renewal fee as of 2011.

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