Changing your name on your passport and renewing it can be a daunting task, but with the right information and guidance, it doesn’t have to be a complicated process. Whether you’re changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or for any other reason, it’s important to make sure your passport reflects your current legal name. In this article, we will walk you through the steps you need to take to change your name on your passport and renew it.
Firstly, it’s important to note that changing your name on your passport and renewing it are two separate processes. If you’re changing your name due to marriage or divorce, you will need to follow different steps than if you’re renewing your passport. Let’s start with changing your name on your passport.
To change your name on your passport, you will need to fill out and submit a DS-5504 form, which is the Application for a U.S. Passport – Name Change, Data Correction, and Limited Passport Book Replacement. You can download the form from the U.S. Department of State’s website or pick one up at a local passport acceptance facility.
In addition to the DS-5504 form, you will need to provide supporting documentation to prove your name change. This may include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will also need to submit your current passport, a recent passport photo, and the applicable fees for the name change.
Once you have completed the form and gathered all the necessary documentation, you can submit your application in person at a passport acceptance facility or by mail. If you choose to apply in person, be sure to make an appointment in advance to avoid long wait times.
After you have submitted your application, it will take approximately 4-6 weeks for your new passport with your updated name to be processed and delivered to you. If you need your passport sooner, you can expedite the process for an additional fee.
Now, let’s talk about renewing your passport. If your passport is expiring soon or has already expired, you will need to renew it before you can travel internationally. The process for renewing your passport is similar to changing your name, but there are some additional steps you will need to follow.
To renew your passport, you will need to fill out and submit a DS-82 form, which is the Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail. You can download the form from the U.S. Department of State’s website or pick one up at a local passport acceptance facility.
In addition to the DS-82 form, you will need to provide your current passport, a recent passport photo, and the applicable fees for renewing your passport. If your passport was issued more than 15 years ago or when you were under the age of 16, you will also need to use the DS-11 form instead of the DS-82 form.
Once you have completed the form and gathered all the necessary documentation, you can submit your application by mail. Be sure to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return of your new passport.
It typically takes 4-6 weeks for your renewed passport to be processed and delivered to you. If you need your passport sooner, you can expedite the process for an additional fee.
In conclusion, changing your name on your passport and renewing it are important steps to ensure that your travel documents are up to date and reflect your current legal name. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily navigate the process and have your new passport in hand in no time. If you have any questions or need further assistance, be sure to reach out to the U.S. Department of State or a local passport acceptance facility for help.
