How to Correct Name Errors and Change Your Name on Your U.S. PassportYour passport is an important travel document that identifies you as a citizen of the United States. However, what happens if there is an error in your name on your passport?
Or perhaps you have recently gotten married or divorced and need to change your name? In this article, we will guide you through the process of correcting name errors and changing your name on your U.S. passport.
We will provide you with all the information you need to know, including the necessary forms, eligibility criteria, and applicable fees. So let’s dive in and ensure that your passport reflects your correct and updated name.
Correcting Name Errors
Name Errors and Form DS-5504
If you notice an error in your name on your passport, it is crucial to correct it as soon as possible. The U.S. Department of State allows you to correct name errors by submitting Form DS-5504, Application for a U.S. Passport: Name Change, Data Correction, and Limited Passport Book Replacement.
This form is specifically designed for correcting errors in your name, such as misspellings or typographical errors. To apply for a name correction, you will need to provide a color photograph of yourself that meets the passport photo requirements.
Additionally, you will be required to submit proof of the error, such as a birth certificate or a court order that supports the change. It is important to note that you must submit the application within one year of the date your passport was issued, and you will not be charged any fees for correcting name errors.
Changing Names due to Marriage, Divorce, or Court-Ordered Name Change
If you recently got married, divorced, or legally changed your name through a court order, you will need to follow a different process to update your name on your passport. Instead of using Form DS-5504, you will need to use Form DS-11, Application for a U.S. Passport.
To be eligible for Form DS-82, you must have obtained your most recent passport within the past 15 years, and you were at least 16 years old when your previous passport was issued. You will also need to provide name change documents, such as your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, to support the change.
Additionally, you will need to submit a color passport photo that meets the requirements, prove your U.S. citizenship with a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and present a valid identification document. Applicable fees will also be charged for changing your name as part of the passport renewal process.
It is crucial to provide all the required documents and fees to ensure a smooth and successful name change.
Changing Your Name on Expired Passports or Ineligible for Form DS-82
Eligibility for Form DS-82
Form DS-82 is specifically designed for passport renewals, including name changes. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can use Form DS-82 to submit your passport application by mail.
To be eligible for Form DS-82, you must have obtained your most recent passport within the past 15 years, you were at least 16 years old when your previous passport was issued, and your passport is undamaged and can be submitted with your application. You will need to provide name change documents to support the change, such as your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, along with the applicable fees.
Ineligibility for Form DS-82
If you are ineligible for Form DS-82, you will need to go to an Acceptance Facility or Passport Agency in person to submit your application. In this case, you will need to complete Form DS-11 instead of Form DS-82.
In addition to the name change documents mentioned earlier, you will also need to provide proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. A valid identification document, such as a driver’s license or a government-issued identification card, is also required.
Moreover, you should bring a color passport photo that meets the requirements. Applicable fees, including the execution fee, will be charged.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, correcting name errors and changing your name on your U.S. passport is a straightforward process. Whether you need to correct a name error or change your name due to marriage, divorce, or a court-ordered name change, the U.S. Department of State provides clear guidelines and forms to ensure accuracy and validity.
By following the correct procedures, submitting the necessary documents, and paying the applicable fees, you can ensure that your passport reflects your correct and updated name. So don’t wait, take action today and make sure your passport is up to date!