Home » Navigating the Seas of Change: How to Change Your Name on Your US Passport

Navigating the Seas of Change: How to Change Your Name on Your US Passport

by Sonal Shukla

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or any other reason, you may want to update your US passport name change to reflect your new identity. Having a passport that matches your current name can make your travel easier and avoid any potential problems at the border. In this article, we will explain how to change your name on your US passport, what documents you need, and how much it costs.

When to Apply for a Passport Name Change

The first thing you need to know is when to apply for a passport name change. Depending on how long ago you got your passport and how you changed your name, you may need to use different forms and procedures.

If you changed your name within one year of getting your passport, you can apply for a passport name change by mail using Form DS-5504. This is a free service, and you don’t need to pay any fees, unless you want expedited service or overnight delivery.
If you changed your name more than one year after getting your passport, you need to apply for a passport renewal with your new name using Form DS-82. This is the same process as renewing your passport normally, and you need to pay the applicable fees, which are $110 for a passport book, $30 for a passport card, or $140 for both.
If you are not eligible to apply by mail, you need to apply in person at a passport acceptance facility or a passport agency using Form DS-11. This is the same process as applying for a new passport, and you need to pay the applicable fees, which are $145 for a passport book, $65 for a passport card, or $175 for both, plus a $35 execution fee.

What Documents You Need?

The next thing you need to know is what documents you need to prove your name change and your identity. Depending on how you changed your name, you may need different documents.

If you changed your name by marriage, you need to provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
If you changed your name through divorce, you need to provide a certified copy of your divorce decree.
If you changed your name by court order, you need to provide a certified copy of the court order.
If you changed your name by any other means, you need to provide three public records that show your date and place of birth and that you have used your new name for at least five years.

In addition to the documents that prove your name change, you also need to provide the following documents:

Your current passport or other proof of US citizenship.
A passport photo that meets the requirements.
A completed and signed application form (DS-5504, DS-82, or DS-11), depending on your situation.
A payment method for the fees, if applicable.

How to Apply for a Passport Name Change

The last thing you need to know is how to apply for a passport name change. Depending on your situation, you may need to apply by mail or in person.

If you are eligible to apply by mail, you need to send your current passport, your name change document, your passport photo, your completed and signed application form, and your payment method (if applicable) to the address on the form. You should use a trackable delivery method and write “EXPEDITE” on the outside of the envelope if you want faster service.
If you need to apply in person, you need to find a passport acceptance facility or a passport agency near you. You need to bring your proof of US citizenship, your name change document, your passport photo, your completed and signed application form, and your payment method to the facility or agency. You may need to make an appointment and provide proof of travel if you apply at a passport agency.

How Long It Takes

The final thing you need to know is how long it takes to get your new passport with your new name. The processing time depends on the service you choose and the demand at the time.

If you apply by mail, the routine service takes about 10 to 12 weeks, and the expedited service takes about 4 to 6 weeks.
If you apply in person, the routine service takes about 4 to 6 weeks, and the expedited service takes about 2 to 3 weeks.
If you have an urgent travel need, you may be able to get your new passport in 72 hours or less by applying at a passport agency and providing proof of travel.

A Final Check: Ensuring Accuracy

Before embarking on your next adventure, take a moment to review your updated passport. Ensure all information is accurate, from your name to your photo. Mistakes can happen, and it’s better to catch them early than deal with potential issues while abroad.

Conclusion

US passport name change Process is not a difficult, but it requires some planning and preparation. You need to know when to apply, what documents to provide, how to apply, and how long it takes. By following the steps in this article, you can get your new passport with your new name and enjoy your travel without any hassle. Happy travels! 🛫

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