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Passport Name Change Guide
Navigate the passport name change process with confidence. Whether you're updating your name after marriage, divorce, or legal name change, this comprehensive guide will walk you through each step to ensure your travel documents reflect your current legal name.
Understanding Passport Name Changes
Changing the name on your U.S. passport is a straightforward process when you have the right documentation and follow the correct procedures. The U.S. Department of State allows passport holders to update their names through the DS-82 renewal application if their current passport is undamaged and was issued within the last 15 years.
This service is particularly important for individuals who have legally changed their names due to marriage, divorce, or court order. Having a passport that matches your current legal identification is essential for international travel and serves as a primary form of identification in many situations.
The Two-Step Process Overview
01
Prepare & Gather Documents
Complete the DS-82 application online and collect all required supporting documentation including proof of name change, passport photos, and your current passport.
02
Mail Your Application
Submit your completed application package with all required documents to the designated processing office for expedited handling.
Following these two essential steps carefully will ensure your passport name change application is processed efficiently. Each step has specific requirements that must be met to avoid delays or rejections. The entire process typically takes 2-3 weeks when expedited service is requested.
Step 1: Complete Your DS-82 Application
The DS-82 Passport Renewal Application is your starting point for a name change. Begin by visiting the official State Department website at https://pptform.state.gov/FraudAbuseNotice.aspx. You'll need to acknowledge that you've read the Privacy and Computer Fraud and Abuse Acts Notices and Disclaimers by selecting the appropriate checkbox.
After clicking SUBMIT, navigate to the following page and select SUBMIT under the "Apply Online" tab. This will launch the secure online application portal where you'll enter your personal information and passport details. The online system is user-friendly and will guide you through each required field.

Important: Once you print your application with the auto-generated barcode, you cannot make any corrections such as write-overs, scratch-outs, or use white-out. Any alterations will invalidate your application and require you to start over.
Critical Application Tips
Include All Names Correctly
List all names exactly as they appear on your Birth Certificate or Naturalization Document. This ensures consistency with your legal identity documents and prevents processing delays.
Choose Your Passport Size
Select the Large Book option if you travel abroad frequently. The large passport book contains 52 pages compared to the standard 28 pages, providing more space for visa stamps and entry/exit stamps.
Select Processing Method
Choose Expedited at Agency Service for $60. This processing method ensures faster handling of your application, typically within 2-3 weeks instead of the standard 6-8 weeks.
Choose Delivery Method
Select Standard Delivery (FREE) for your completed passport. This secure delivery option is included at no additional cost and typically arrives within 1-2 business days of processing completion.
Required Documentation Checklist
Essential Documents You'll Need
Gathering the correct documents before starting your application saves time and prevents delays. Each document serves a specific purpose in verifying your identity and legal name change. Ensure all documents are original or certified copies, as photocopies are not accepted.
Missing even one required document will result in your application being returned unprocessed, significantly delaying your passport name change. Review this checklist carefully and verify you have everything before mailing your application.
Proof of Name Change Requirements
Marriage License
Submit an original or certified copy of your marriage license showing your name change. The document must be issued by the appropriate government authority and include official seals or stamps.
Divorce Decree
Provide an original or certified copy of your divorce decree if reverting to a previous name. The decree must clearly indicate the name change provision approved by the court.
Court Order
Include an original or certified copy of the court order authorizing your legal name change. This applies to name changes granted through formal legal proceedings outside of marriage or divorce.
You only need to submit one of these documents as proof of your name change. The document must be an original or certified copy issued by the relevant authority. Notarized copies are not accepted as substitutes for certified copies.
Additional Required Items
Two (2) Passport Photos
Submit two identical passport-size photos taken within the last three months. Photos must meet specific requirements: 2x2 inches, color, taken against a white or off-white background, and showing a full front view of your face. No glasses are allowed in passport photos as of current regulations.
Proof of Travel
Provide documentation showing upcoming international travel, such as a copy of your travel itinerary, airline ticket for travel within 14 days, or 21 days if you need to apply for a visa. This demonstrates the urgency of your application.
Authorization Form
Complete and sign one authorization form that grants permission for our office to submit your passport application on your behalf. This form must be fully completed with no blank fields and bear your original signature.
Your Current Passport
Include your original current passport with your application. This will be cancelled and returned to you along with your new passport. Your existing passport serves as proof of your U.S. citizenship.
Photo Requirements and Guidelines
Meeting Official Photo Standards
Passport photos must comply with strict U.S. Department of State requirements. Your photos must be in color, printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper, and measure exactly 2 inches by 2 inches. The image size should show your head between 1 and 1⅜ inches from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head.
Take your photos against a plain white or off-white background with no shadows. Face the camera directly with a neutral facial expression and both eyes open. Your entire face must be visible with no hair covering your eyes. Remove any accessories that obscure your face, and remember that eyeglasses are not permitted in passport photos.
Photos must be recent—taken within the last three months—to accurately represent your current appearance. Many professional photo services, pharmacies, and postal centers offer passport photo services that meet these specific requirements.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Final Steps for Processing
Once you've gathered all required documents and completed your DS-82 application, carefully review everything one final time. Ensure your application has the computer-generated barcode, all documents are original or certified copies, your passport photos meet specifications, and you've included your signed authorization form.
Place all materials in a secure envelope and mail them to our processing office. Keep copies of everything you submit for your records. Your original passport will be cancelled and returned with your new passport showing your updated name.
Review Package
Double-check all documents are included and properly prepared
Mail Application
Send via secure mail service to our processing office
Processing Time
Expect 2-3 weeks with expedited service
Receive Passport
Your new passport with updated name arrives via standard delivery

Questions? Contact our office if you need assistance with any part of the application process. We're here to help ensure your passport name change is completed smoothly and efficiently.