U.S. Passport Name Change Checklist
The form you use to change the name on your U.S. passport depends on how recently your passport was issued. Passports issued within the last year typically use DS-5504 (no fee). Older passports usually use DS-82 or DS-11.
Quick answer
If your passport was issued within the last year: use DS-5504 (no fee) and submit your current passport plus a certified name-change document. If it was issued more than a year ago: use DS-82 if you meet renewal eligibility, or DS-11 in person. A certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order is required as the name-change document.
Documents you may need
- Name-change document — certified marriage certificate, divorce decree with court seal, or court order; photocopies are not accepted
- DS-5504 (if passport issued within 1 year) — submit current passport + name-change doc; no fee applies
- DS-82 (if issued 1–15 years ago and you meet renewal eligibility) — submit current passport + photo + fee + name-change doc
- DS-11 and in-person appearance (if passport is more than 15 years old or otherwise not eligible for DS-82)
- One compliant passport photo — 2×2 inch, white background, taken within the last 6 months (not required for DS-5504)
- Renewal fee (~$130) if using DS-82 or DS-11 — DS-5504 is free
Common mistakes
- Bringing a photocopy of the marriage certificate or court order — only originals or certified copies are accepted
- Using DS-82 when the passport is more than 15 years old or was issued before age 16 — check eligibility before mailing
- Forgetting that DS-5504 has a 1-year window — if your passport was issued more than a year ago, you cannot use this form
Official sources
Last reviewed: June 2026
Frequently asked questions
- What form do I need to change my name on a U.S. passport?
- It depends on when your passport was issued. Within the last year: DS-5504 (free). One to fifteen years ago and you meet DS-82 eligibility: DS-82. Older than 15 years or not eligible for DS-82: DS-11 in person.
- Is there a fee to change a name on a U.S. passport?
- If your passport was issued within the last year and you use DS-5504, there is no fee. Otherwise, standard renewal or application fees apply.
- What documents prove a legal name change?
- A certified marriage certificate, a divorce decree bearing the court seal, or a court order legally changing your name. Photocopies are not accepted.
This is a simplified guide. Passport requirements can change without notice. Always confirm the final documents, fees, photos, and application method on the official passport authority website before applying.