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How to Change Your Name on Your US Passport

Quick answer

Which passport form you use depends on timing. If your passport was issued within the last year, use Form DS-5504 by mail for free. Otherwise use Form DS-82 by mail (about $130 for a book) or DS-11 in person. All require a certified name-change document (marriage certificate or court order) and a new photo.

Form
DS-5504 (free if <1 yr) / DS-82 ($130) / DS-11 (in person)
Cost
Free with DS-5504; about $130 (book) with DS-82
Processing
Routine 4–6 weeks; expedited about 2–3 weeks (+$60)

Step by step

  1. 1

    Choose your form: DS-5504 (free) if your current passport was issued within the last year; DS-82 by mail if you qualify for renewal; DS-11 in person otherwise.

  2. 2

    Complete the form and attach your current passport, a certified name-change document, and one new photo.

  3. 3

    Mail it to the address on the form (or apply in person for DS-11), and pay the fee — DS-5504 is free; DS-82 is about $130 for a book.

  4. 4

    Add $60 for expedited service if you need it faster; routine processing is about 4–6 weeks.

What you'll need

Official links

US Dept of State — Change or correct a passport ↗Form DS-5504 (PDF) ↗Form DS-82 (PDF) ↗

Where this fits in your checklist

Do the passport after Social Security and the DMV. It needs your original certified name-change document, which those earlier steps also use, so order certified copies up front.

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US Passport name change: FAQ

Is it free to change the name on my passport?
It is free only if you use Form DS-5504 and your current passport was issued within the last year (and you are over 16). Otherwise the standard renewal fee applies — about $130 for a passport book with Form DS-82.
Do I get my certified marriage certificate back?
Yes. The State Department returns your certified name-change document in a separate mailing from your new passport.
Last verified July 16, 2026Reviewed by the Name Change Atlas Editorial Team against official court and .gov sources.

Federal facts verified July 16, 2026. Sources · Methodology.