New York Passport Name Change Process – Step-by-Step 2026 Guide with Costs

If you recently changed your name after marriage, divorce, or a court order, updating your U.S. passport is an important final step.

For New York residents, the passport name change process in 2026 is straightforward — but only if you use the correct form and submit the right documents.

This complete guide explains:

• Which form you need

• Required documents

• Exact fees

• Mailing process

• Processing times

• Common mistakes

• Special situations

Let’s simplify everything step by step.

Do You Need to Change Your Passport Name?

You must update your passport if:

• You legally changed your last name after marriage

• You returned to your maiden name after divorce

• You received a court-ordered name change

• Your passport shows your previous legal name

Your passport must match your current legal identity used for:

• International travel

• Airline tickets

• TSA verification

• Immigration records

Even one letter difference can cause travel delays.

Step 1: Determine Which Situation Applies to You

Your process depends on when your passport was issued.

There are three main scenarios.

Scenario 1: Passport Issued Less Than 1 Year Ago

If your passport was issued within the last 12 months, you can update your name for free.

Form Required:

Form DS-5504

This form is specifically for:

• Name changes within 1 year

• Minor data corrections

Documents Required:

• Your current passport

• Certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order

• Completed DS-5504 form

• Passport photo (if required)

2026 Fee:

$0 (No government fee)

Optional expedited service:
+$60

How to Submit:

Mail your documents to the address listed on the DS-5504 instructions.

Scenario 2: Passport Issued More Than 1 Year Ago

If your passport is older than 12 months, you must renew it and update your name at the same time.

Form Required:

Form DS-82 (Passport Renewal Form)

Documents Required:

• Current passport

• Certified name change document

• Completed DS-82

• One passport photo

• Payment

2026 Fees:

• Passport Book: $130

• Passport Card: $30

• Book + Card: $160

• Expedited Processing: +$60

Payment must be made by check or money order payable to:

“U.S. Department of State”

Cash is not accepted by mail.

Scenario 3: Applying as a New Applicant

You must apply in person using Form DS-11 if:

• Your passport is expired more than 5 years

• You lost your passport

• You cannot submit your old passport

• You changed your full name significantly

Documents Required:

• Certified name change document

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate or naturalization certificate)

• Government-issued photo ID

• Passport photo

• Payment

2026 Fees:

• Passport Book: $130

• Execution Fee: $35
  Total: $165
  Expedited: +$60

Step 2: Update Social Security First (Important)

Before updating your passport, update your name with the Social Security Administration.

Why?

The passport office verifies your identity through federal databases. If your Social Security record still shows your old name, delays may occur.

Wait at least 48 hours after SSA confirmation before mailing your passport application.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Make sure you bring or mail:

• Certified marriage certificate

• Court order (if applicable)

• Divorce decree (if restoring maiden name)

• Current passport

• Correct application form

• Payment (if required)

Photocopies are not accepted for legal name change proof.

Step 4: Complete the Application Carefully

Common mistakes include:

• Signing with old name

• Leaving sections blank

• Using incorrect form

• Forgetting passport photo

• Wrong payment amount

Take your time. Double-check spelling and dates.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Mail Applications (DS-5504 & DS-82)

Use a trackable mailing method such as USPS Priority Mail with tracking.

Do not fold documents.

In-Person Applications (DS-11)

You must visit a passport acceptance facility.

In New York, these include:

• U.S. Post Offices

• County Clerk Offices

• Some public libraries

Appointments are often required.

Processing Time in 2026

Estimated processing times:

Routine Service:
6–8 weeks

Expedited Service:
2–3 weeks

Urgent Travel:
Within 14 days (appointment required at passport agency)

Processing times may increase during peak travel season (spring & summer).

Can You Travel While Waiting?

If you mailed your passport for name change:

You cannot travel internationally until your updated passport is returned.

Plan ahead, especially for:

• Honeymoon trips

• Business travel

• International vacations

Do Airline Tickets Need to Match Passport?

Yes.

Your airline ticket name must match your passport exactly.

If you book under your new name but passport shows old name, boarding may be denied.

If travel is soon, you may need to:

• Travel under old name (if legally allowed)
  OR

• Request expedited passport processing

What If Your Marriage Certificate Doesn’t Clearly Show New Name?

Most New York marriage certificates allow automatic last name change.

However:

If you changed your middle name or created a new name combination, you may need:

• A court-ordered name change

Always ensure the name change document clearly supports your requested passport name.

Updating Other Travel Programs

After receiving your updated passport, update:

• TSA PreCheck

• Global Entry

• Trusted Traveler Programs

• Airline loyalty accounts

Consistency prevents future identity verification issues.

Common Mistakes That Cause Delays

Avoid these errors:

• Sending photocopy instead of certified certificate

• Forgetting to sign application

• Submitting wrong fee

• Damaged passport photo

• Not including old passport

Double-check before mailing.

Quick Cost Summary (2026)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to update my passport after marriage?

There is no strict deadline, but your passport must match your legal name before international travel.

Can I keep my maiden name on my passport?

Yes, but airline tickets and other IDs must match your passport exactly.

Do I need to update my passport immediately?

Only if you plan to travel internationally using your new legal name.

What if my passport is expiring soon?

You can renew and update your name at the same time using Form DS-82.

Final Thoughts

Updating your passport name in New York is not complicated, but accuracy is essential.

Remember:

• Choose the correct form

• Include certified documents

• Double-check application details

• Plan for processing time

• Use expedited service if needed

Handling your passport update properly ensures stress-free international travel.

"This article is written for informational purposes and should not be considered legal advice. "