How To Change or Correct a Passport
If you have a passport that needs to have the name changed, has a data or printing error, then please follow the instructions listed below. If you need to do this in person, then use our search local post offices page to find a location that offers passport services.
Update Name on Passport
The process to change your name on your passport varies depending on your situation. Please see the chart below to find the process that applies to you.
| If | Then |
|---|---|
| You are requesting the change less than one year after your passport was issued | Submit the following by mail:
Please note, you will not have to submit any fees unless you request Expedited Service. |
| You are requesting the change more than one year after your passport was issued | If you are eligible to use Form DS-82*, submit the following by mail:
If you are not eligible to use Form DS-82, submit the following in person at an acceptance facility or a passport agency (restrictions apply):
Please note, you do not need to submit proof of the name change if your name has changed due to marriage and you present an ID issued in your new name. You must include the details of the marriage in the appropriate section on Form DS-11. |
| You are already using a different name but cannot document the change with a court order, divorce decree, or marriage certificate | Submit the following in person at one of your local post offices (restrictions apply):
Please note, if your ID is less than 5 years old, they may ask you for additional identification as evidence that you have been using the name for at least 5 years. |
*You can renew by mail using Form DS-82 if your most recent passport:
- Is submitted with your application
- Is undamaged (other than normal "wear and tear")
- Was issued when you were age 16 or older
- Was issued within the last 15 years
- Was issued in your current name (or you can document your name change with an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order)
Correct a Data or Printing Error on Passport
A passport issued with a data or printing error can be corrected at no charge if the passport is still valid. To correct a data or printing error you must do the following:
- Complete Form DS-5504
- Submit form by mail with your passport, one color photo, and evidence of the error
- You will not have to submit any fees
- The validity of the new, corrected passport depends on when you report the error
| If | Then |
|---|---|
| Reported within one year of issue date | The new passport will be valid for 10 years from the date it is issued |
| Reported after one year of issue date | The new passport will be valid until the expiration of the original, incorrect passport |
No, you don't need to update your current passport with your new address. However, if you have a passport application that is currently in process, and you'd like to change your mailing address, please call 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 (TDD/TTY).
Can I change my passport photo?If your photo looks bad because of a printing error on our part, you can use Form DS-5504 to reapply at no cost to you. If your photo is printed correctly and you just dislike your photo, you may use Form DS-82 to re-apply. You will need to pay the normal fees.