How to Change the Name on Your U.S. Passport

📍 When Is a Name Change Allowed?

A name change on a passport is processed as a passport renewal with an official name change.

You may update your passport only if the name change resulted from an official court proceeding, such as:

• Marriage

• Divorce

• Court-ordered legal name change

Informal name changes or personal preference updates are not accepted.

🧾 Required Documents

To apply for a passport with your new name, submit the following:

• Current U.S. passport

• Passport photo (meeting government requirements)

• Completed Form DS-82

  • Enter your new name in the applicant section

  • Enter your previous name in the prior passport information section

  • Indicate the reason for the name change (marriage, divorce, or court order)

• The original court document validating the name change

  • (This document will be returned by the Passport Agency)

• Copy of government-issued ID showing your new name

• Swift Letter of Authorization

• International flight itinerary with your new name listed

📄 Important Form Instructions

When completing DS-82:

• Ensure the spelling matches your court document exactly

• Provide accurate prior passport details

Errors may delay processing.

⚠️ Important Notes

• Only official court documents are accepted

• The original court document must be submitted (photocopies are not accepted)

• Your travel reservation must match your new legal name

• Government approval is not guaranteed

Swift cannot override U.S. Department of State requirements.

💡 Helpful Guidance

• Update your driver’s license before submitting your passport application

• Ensure all documents reflect the same legal name

• Processing begins only after submission to the Passport Agency