In recent years, the practice of changing one’s last name after getting married has become less common. With the rise of feminism and a desire to maintain one’s own identity, many modern couples are opting to keep their original last names or hyphenate their names to create a new one. However, for those who do choose to take on their partner’s last name, navigating the legal process of changing it on official documents can be a daunting task.
One of the most important documents to update after getting married is your passport. The process of changing your name on your passport can be confusing and time-consuming, but it’s essential to ensure that your identification matches your legal name. Here, we break down the steps involved in changing your name on your passport after getting married.
The first step in changing your name on your passport is to obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This document serves as proof of your name change and will be required when updating your passport. Most states allow you to request a certified copy of your marriage certificate online or by mail for a small fee.
Once you have your certified marriage certificate in hand, you can begin the process of updating your passport. The next step is to complete the appropriate form for name change, which can be found on the website of the U.S. Department of State. The form will ask for basic information such as your full name, date of birth, and current passport number. Be sure to fill out the form completely and accurately to avoid any delays in processing.
In addition to the name change form, you will also need to submit a recent passport photo, your current passport, and the certified copy of your marriage certificate. You may also be required to provide additional documentation, such as a copy of your driver’s license or social security card. Check the specific requirements for name changes on the State Department’s website to ensure that you have all necessary documents.
Once you have gathered all of the required documents, you will need to submit them to the State Department for processing. This can be done by mail or in person at a passport acceptance facility. If you choose to mail in your application, be sure to use a secure and traceable delivery method to ensure that your documents arrive safely.
After submitting your application, you can expect to receive your new passport with your married name within 4-6 weeks. If you need your passport expedited, you can pay an additional fee to have it processed more quickly. Keep in mind that expedited processing may still take 2-3 weeks, so be sure to plan ahead if you have upcoming travel plans.
In addition to updating your passport, there are several other documents that you will need to update with your new married name. These may include your driver’s license, social security card, credit cards, bank accounts, and any other official documents that bear your name. Be sure to notify the appropriate agencies and institutions of your name change to avoid any issues in the future.
Changing your name after getting married can be a time-consuming process, but it is essential to ensure that your identification reflects your legal name. By following the steps outlined above, you can update your passport with your married name and begin the process of updating your other official documents. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can make the transition to your new name smoothly and efficiently.
