# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Passports

How to Change the Name on a US Passport in Person

Changing your name after marriage or divorce can be confusing. You must change the name on your Social Security card, state I.D. and your passport. The United States Department of State allows you to change the name on your passport through the mail but if you need an immediate change, you can visit one of your local Passport Acceptance Facilities. The procedure to change your name differs according to the length of time you have had your passport.

Current passport
Birth certificate
State identification
Marriage license, divorce decree, or court order
2 2 x 2 inch recent photographs

Instructions

- 1
  Visit your local Passport Acceptance Facility. You can locate the nearest facility by searching the database on the U.S. Department of State website.
- 2
  Take along your current passport, two forms of identification, two 2 x 2 inch photographs and a certified copy of your marriage license, divorce decree or court order stating the name change. If you do not have a copy of the certified document, you can use three public records showing your assumed name, and your date and place of birth. The documents must show that you changed your name at least five years ago.
- 3
  Complete Form DS-5504 if your passport is less than one year old. If your passport is more than one year old, you must complete Form DS-82. If you do not have legal documentation of the name change, you must compete Form DS-11.
- 4
  Pay the fee, if applicable. As of November 2010, no fee applies to those who complete Form DS-5504. If you must complete form DS-11, the cost includes a $140 application fee and a $25 execution fee. If you complete Form DS-82, you must pay a $140 renewal fee. Passport facilities accept all major credit cards, checks, cash, money orders and debit cards.