Since you have just gotten married, chances are you have to apply for a passport name change. When this document is used for travel abroad or even to reenter the United States, it has to be accurate. This includes any of the names listed on it. It is your responsibility to ensure that this is so.

Passport Corrections

If you have recently been issued a travel document it should be checked carefully for errors. Occasionally, typos or spelling mistakes do occur. When you find a mistake, you need to take the necessary steps to have it corrected.

Documents Needed

If you have changed your name through legal proceedings, this would also require a change in your travel documents. When you have decided to begin the process, there is other paperwork that will also be required. Your current passport, of course, is the most important requirement. It has to be undamaged when it is sent back.

Form DS-5504

You will use the DS-5504 application form for this particular process. For recent marriages or legal changes through a court ruling or just for clerical errors, be sure to use this form as any other would not be appropriate in this case.

Marriage Certificate

You also need to provide other documents relating to the changes that you are requesting. The paperwork that you would need to provide would be a copy of your marriage certificate or a copy of the documentation proving that the change was indeed court ordered.

New Photo

It is also possible that you will be required to turn in a current photo when you apply for a new book. You can ask about this at the time of your application. If so, it will have to be taken implementing the proper regulations. Size and backgrounds must be correct.

Fees

If you are making these changes within a year of when your most recent book was issued, there will be no fee charged. However, if you would like to have it expedited, there is an extra charge for that. That is an option that you can choose if you are planning on traveling abroad soon.

Form DS-82

For changes that would be longer than a year, the same documents would be required except for the application form. For this, you would need to use a DS-82 application. This is considered a renewal so it would entail paying the renewal fee, as well. Photos will be sent in with the documentation.

Form DS-11

For changes that have not been covered, documentation will be different. Three pieces of paperwork showing exclusive use of the name requested for at least five years also showing date and place of birth will be required. In addition, the form needed for this application would be the DS-11. The fees applied would be considered a first time application.

Choosing to have a American passport name change is not complicated as long as you have all of the correct documents and use the proper application. You also need to include the applicable expedited USA passports fees. When you send your documents in and are sure your old book is included, be sure the packaging provides adequate protection.