All passport answersName change
Accepted name-change documents for a U.S. passport
By Tom Jones
Editor-in-Chief, PassportOfficesLast reviewed Editorial policy
Short answer
What documents prove a name change for a passport?
Submit a certified copy of the legal document that changed your name: a marriage certificate, a divorce decree that restores a former name, or a court-ordered name change. It must be issued by the government authority, and photocopies or souvenir certificates aren't accepted.
Next step
Open the Name change & corrections guide
Actionable steps, requirements, and tools to move forward.
Key takeaways
- Certified copies only, with a seal or official stamp.
- The document is returned to you.
- Several changes may need a document for each step.
- No document? Apply under your old name or use a court order.
Full answer
Within a year of issuance, you can usually correct the name with Form DS-5504 at no fee. After that, use DS-82 by mail, or DS-11 in person if you're not eligible to renew.