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DS-82 or DS-11

Change the name on your passport

Tom Jones

By Tom Jones

Editor-in-Chief, PassportOfficesLast reviewed Editorial policy

Change the name on your passport

Short answer

Which form you use depends on how long ago your passport was issued and what legal document proves the change.

steps

  1. Step 1

    Check how old your passport is

    Issued less than one year ago? Use form DS-5504 and pay nothing. Issued more than a year ago but you still qualify to renew by mail? Use DS-82. Otherwise, use DS-11 in person.

  2. Step 2

    Gather certified proof of the change

    An original or certified marriage certificate, divorce decree that grants the name change, or court order. Photocopies are not accepted.

  3. Step 3

    Use your new name consistently

    Sign the form in your new name and make sure your photo ID matches — a mismatch is the most common reason these are returned.

  4. Step 4

    Send your current passport

    Include the passport being corrected. Your certified name-change document is also returned, in a separate mailing.

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