Changing your name on your passport is an important legal process that ensures your travel documents reflect your current identity. Whether you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, court order, or any other legal reason, updating your passport is essential before traveling internationally.
One common question is whether it is possible to change the name on your passport in person. The answer can vary depending on your location, the passport issuing authority, and your specific situation.
This article aims to clarify the process, requirements, and options available for changing your name on your passport in person.
Understanding the Name Change on Passport Process
When you change your name, your passport must be updated to reflect this change to avoid complications during travel. The process generally involves submitting a new application with legal proof of your name change.
Important: You cannot simply have your name changed on your existing passport without applying for a new one. The U.S.
Department of State, for example, treats a name change as a reason to apply for a new passport book and/or card.
What Does “In Person” Mean?
Applying or updating your passport “in person” means you physically visit a passport acceptance facility, passport agency, or embassy/consulate, instead of submitting your application by mail. This can be important if you need expedited service or have special circumstances.
Most routine passport renewals or name changes can be done by mail if you meet certain criteria. However, applying in person is often required for first-time applicants, urgent travel, or if you don’t qualify for mail renewal.
Can You Change Your Name on Passport In Person?
Yes, you can change your name on your passport in person, but the process depends on your location and urgency.
If you are in the United States, you can visit a passport acceptance facility or a regional passport agency that offers in-person service. Acceptance facilities include post offices, libraries, or county government offices that accept passport applications.
Regional passport agencies, on the other hand, provide expedited services and generally require proof of immediate travel plans.
For U.S. citizens living abroad, you can visit a U.S.
embassy or consulate to apply in person for a name change on your passport.
When Is In-Person Application Required?
- If you are applying for a passport for the first time.
- If your previous passport was issued when you were under 16 years old.
- If your previous passport was lost, stolen, or damaged.
- If you need expedited processing due to urgent travel.
- If you do not meet the criteria for renewing by mail.
Documents Required to Change Your Name on Passport In Person
You must bring specific documents when applying to change your name in person. These documents verify your identity, citizenship, and legal name change.
| Document Type | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Current Passport | Your most recent U.S. passport book and/or card. | Must be undamaged and in your possession. |
| Proof of Name Change | Legal documents such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. | Original or certified copies only. |
| Proof of Identity | Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, state ID). | Must be current and not expired. |
| Passport Application Form | Form DS-82 (renewal) or DS-11 (first-time or other situations). | Available online or at the passport acceptance facility. |
| Passport Photo | One recent color passport photo meeting official specifications. | Usually 2×2 inches, white background. |
| Payment | Passport fees (check, money order, or credit card depending on location). | Check current fee schedule before your visit. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Name on Passport In Person
- Gather Required Documents: Collect your current passport, legal name change documents, identification, photos, and payment.
- Choose the Correct Application Form: Use Form DS-82 for renewal or Form DS-11 for first-time or special cases.
- Find a Passport Acceptance Facility or Agency: Use the official U.S. Department of State website to locate the nearest in-person location.
- Schedule an Appointment: Some locations require appointments, especially regional passport agencies.
- Attend Your Appointment: Submit your application, documents, and payment in person.
- Wait for Processing: Standard processing can take 8-11 weeks; expedited service is faster but costs more.
- Receive Your New Passport: Your new passport will arrive by mail or can sometimes be picked up in person.
Important Considerations When Changing Your Name In Person
Processing times: Standard passport processing can take several weeks. If you need your updated passport quickly, you may want to apply at a regional passport agency with proof of imminent travel.
Fees: Name changes require full passport fees unless you qualify for a no-fee replacement (rare). Expedited service costs extra.
Legal name change: Your name change must be legally recognized. Informal or nickname changes are not accepted without legal documentation.
“Always check the latest guidelines from the passport issuing authority before applying, as rules and fees can change.” – U.S. Department of State
Can You Change Your Name on a Passport at a Post Office?
Many post offices act as passport acceptance facilities where you can submit your application in person. However, they do not issue passports on the spot.
Instead, they forward your application and documents to the Department of State.
At these acceptance facilities, you can:
- Submit a new passport application for a name change.
- Have your documents reviewed for completeness.
- Pay applicable fees.
After submission, your application is processed centrally, and your updated passport is mailed to you.
Changing Your Name on a Passport Abroad
If you live outside your home country, you can usually change your passport name in person at your country’s embassy or consulate. This process is similar but may require additional documentation or local procedures.
Tip: Contact the embassy or consulate ahead of time to confirm which documents to bring and whether you need an appointment.
Summary of Options for Changing Name on Passport In Person
| Method | Where to Apply | When to Use | Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passport Acceptance Facility | Post offices, libraries, government offices | Routine name change, mail-in eligible applicants | 8-11 weeks (normal) | Submit application in person, passport mailed later |
| Regional Passport Agency | Regional offices in major cities | Urgent travel, first-time applicants, special cases | 24 hours to 3 weeks (expedited) | Appointment required; proof of travel necessary |
| Embassy or Consulate Abroad | Foreign missions | Residents or citizens overseas needing update | Varies by country | Contact embassy for specific requirements |
Common Questions About Changing Name on Passport In Person
Q: Can I walk into a passport agency without an appointment to change my name?
A: Most regional passport agencies require appointments, especially for expedited services. Walk-ins are generally not accepted.
Q: How long does it take to get a new passport after changing my name in person?
A: Standard processing is 8-11 weeks. Expedited service can reduce this to 24 hours to 3 weeks depending on urgency.
Q: Will my old passport be returned to me?
A: No. Your old passport will be invalidated and returned separately after processing.
Q: Can a nickname or shortened name be used on the passport?
A: No. Your passport must reflect your full legal name as documented by a legal name change.
Q: Do I need to notify other agencies after changing my name on the passport?
A: Yes. Update your Social Security Administration, driver’s license, and other official records to match your passport.
Final Thoughts
Changing your name on your passport in person is a straightforward process, provided you come prepared with the correct documents, application, and fees. It is often recommended if you require expedited service or do not qualify for mail renewal.
Remember: Always check the official government website or contact the passport agency directly before your visit to ensure you have the most current information. Passport rules and processes can change, and being well-prepared will make your name change smooth and hassle-free.
Your passport is your primary international identification, so keeping it updated with your current legal name is crucial for travel and identity verification.
