Changing your name on a U.S. passport after marriage requires submitting specific forms, documents, and fees depending on when your current passport was issued. The process is straightforward if you have a certified marriage certificate and follow the correct application procedure. You can complete the name change by mail for most cases, though some situations require in-person applications. Processing times typically range from 6-8 weeks for standard service, with expedited options available for an additional fee.

Key findings from the sources:

• Form DS-5504 is used for passports issued within the last year, with no fee unless expedited service is requested ^[6][8]
• Form DS-82 applies to passports issued more than one year ago but within the last 15 years, with a $130 fee ^[3][9]
• A certified marriage certificate is the primary document required for name change verification ^[2][5]
• You can travel with your maiden name passport if it matches your ticket, but carrying your marriage certificate is recommended ^[5][10]

Passport Name Change Process After Marriage

Eligibility and Required Forms

The form you need depends entirely on when your current passport was issued and its condition. The U.S. Department of State provides three primary forms for name changes, each with specific eligibility criteria.

For passports issued less than one year ago, use Form DS-5504 (Application for a U.S. Passport: Name Change, Data Correction, and Limited Passport Book Replacement). This form has several advantages:

• No fee for standard processing ^[6][8]
• Can be submitted by mail ^[6]
• Processing time of 6-8 weeks for routine service ^[8]
• Requires your current passport, a certified marriage certificate, and a new passport photo ^[6]

For passports issued more than one year ago but within the last 15 years, use Form DS-82 (U.S. Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals). This requires:

• A $130 application fee ^[3][9]
• Your most recent undamaged passport ^[3]
• A certified marriage certificate as proof of name change ^[3]
• A recent color passport photo meeting state department requirements ^[3]
• Submission by mail to the appropriate processing center ^[3]

If your passport was issued more than 15 years ago, is damaged, or you were under 16 when it was issued, you must use Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport) and apply in person at an acceptance facility. This process:

• Requires the $130 application fee ^[9]
• Needs proof of citizenship (birth certificate or naturalization certificate) ^[9]
• Requires presentation of valid photo ID ^[9]
• Includes providing a certified marriage certificate ^[9]
• Must be completed at designated facilities like post offices or courthouses ^[9]

Document Requirements and Submission Process

The name change process requires specific documents that must be submitted correctly to avoid delays or rejections. The certified marriage certificate is the cornerstone of your application, but additional materials are necessary.

Required documents for all name change applications:

• Certified marriage certificate: Must be an original or certified copy (not a photocopy) showing your legal name change ^[2][5]
• Current U.S. passport: Must be undamaged and submitted with your application ^[3][6]
• Passport photo: Must meet State Department requirements (2x2 inches, white background, no glasses) ^[3][8]
• Completed application form: Either DS-5504, DS-82, or DS-11 depending on your situation ^[2][6]

The submission process varies slightly by form:

• DS-5504 and DS-82: Can be mailed to the National Passport Processing Center ^[3][6]
• Address varies by state - check the form instructions ^[3]
• Include payment (check or money order for DS-82) ^[3]
• Use trackable mail service recommended ^[8]
• DS-11: Must be submitted in person at an acceptance facility ^[9]
• Requires making an appointment at many locations ^[9]
• Some facilities require additional documentation ^[9]

Processing times and fees:

• Standard processing: 6-8 weeks for all forms ^[8][10]
• Expedited service: 2-3 weeks for additional $60 fee ^[8]
• 1-2 day delivery: Available for returned passport for $19.53 ^[8]
• DS-5504: No fee unless expedited ^[6]
• DS-82 and DS-11: $130 application fee ^[3][9]

Common reasons for application rejection include:

• Using an uncertified marriage certificate copy ^[8]
• Submitting a damaged passport ^[7]
• Incorrect photo specifications ^[3]
• Missing signatures on forms ^[6]
• Incomplete fee payment ^[8]