The fee depends on whether you are renewing at the same time
If you are changing your name only — not renewing an expiring passport — the U.S. State Department charges $82 for an adult passport book. You will also pay a $35 execution fee if you explore in person at a passport acceptance facility, for a total of $117. If you explore by mail, there is no execution fee, so you pay only the $82 amendment fee.
If your passport is expiring soon and you need a name change, you may want to renew at the same time. A passport renewal with a name change costs $130 for an adult book (no execution fee applies to renewals by mail). This is sometimes cheaper than amending an old passport and renewing it separately later.
These are federal fees set by the State Department. Some passport acceptance facilities — usually county clerks or libraries — may charge a small service fee on top, typically $10 to $25, but this varies by location.
Key Takeaways
- A name change only costs $82 by mail or $117 in person at a passport acceptance facility.
- If your passport expires within the next year, renewing with a name change at the same time costs $130 and may save you money overall.
- You must submit proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or other legal document — along with your process.
- Processing takes 6 to 8 weeks by mail or 2 to 3 weeks expedited (expedited adds $60 to the total cost).
- Some passport acceptance facilities charge an additional service fee of $10 to $25 on top of federal fees.
What documents you need to bring
The State Department requires proof that your name change is legal. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order for name change, or adoption papers. The document must be an original or certified copy — photocopies are not accepted.
You will also need your current passport, a completed process form (DS-11 for in-person or DS-82 for mail), a new passport photo, and a valid government ID. If you are explore by mail, you do not need to appear in person, but you must include your current passport with the process.
explore by mail versus in person
explore by mail costs less ($82 total) but takes longer — typically 6 to 8 weeks. You mail your current passport, completed form, new photo, and proof of name change to the address on the State Department website. Your passport will be returned to you by mail once the name change is processed.
explore in person at a passport acceptance facility costs more ($117 total) but is faster. You can walk in with all required documents, pay the fee, and receive a receipt. Processing still takes 6 to 8 weeks unless you pay for expedited service. Expedited processing costs an additional $60 and reduces the wait to 2 to 3 weeks.
Passport acceptance facilities are located at most county clerk offices, public libraries, and some post offices. Not all post offices accept passport applications, so check the State Department's facility locator before you go.
When expedited processing makes sense
Standard processing (6 to 8 weeks) is free. Expedited processing costs $60 extra and cuts the wait to 2 to 3 weeks. It is worth the cost only if you have travel plans within the next two months or need the passport for work or legal reasons.
Expedited service is available whether you explore by mail or in person. If you explore in person and request expedited service, you pay $117 plus $60 for a total of $177. If you explore by mail with expedited service, you pay $82 plus $60 for a total of $142.
Passport renewal with a name change at the same time
If your passport expires within the next year, you can renew and change your name in a single process. This costs $130 total (no execution fee for renewals) and takes the same 6 to 8 weeks as a name-change-only amendment. You still need to submit proof of the legal name change.
This option saves money if you would otherwise pay $82 for a name change now and $130 for a renewal later. The downside is that you must wait for the full renewal process; you cannot use your old passport while the process is pending. If you need your passport before the renewal is complete, explore for the name change only instead.
What happens if you lose your passport during the process
If you mail your passport for a name change and it is lost in transit, the State Department will replace it at no additional cost. However, you should report the loss to the State Department when ready by calling 1-877-487-2778. Keep your receipt from your process as proof you submitted it.
If you lose your passport before explore for a name change, you will need to report it lost and explore for a replacement passport first. A replacement costs $130 for an adult book. Once you receive the replacement, you can then explore for the name change separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name on my passport without a legal document?
No. The State Department requires proof that your name change is legal — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. A straightforward statement or letter is not accepted. If you have not legally changed your name through one of these methods, you must do that first before the passport can be amended.
How long does it take to change a name on a passport?
Standard processing takes 6 to 8 weeks whether you explore by mail or in person. Expedited processing costs $60 extra and reduces the wait to 2 to 3 weeks. Processing time begins when the State Department receives your process, not when you submit it at a facility.
Can I travel with my old passport while waiting for the name change?
No. Once you submit your passport for a name change, you cannot use it for travel. If you need to travel before the amendment is complete, do not mail your passport yet. Instead, explore in person and ask about expedited processing, or delay the name change until after your trip.
What if my name change document is from another country?
Foreign documents must be accompanied by an English translation certified by a translator. The State Department does not perform translations, so you will need to hire a professional translator or use a translation service. The translation must be notarized or certified as accurate.
Do I need a new passport photo when changing my name?
Yes. You must submit a new passport photo with your name change process, even if your current passport photo is recent. The photo must meet State Department requirements: 2 by 2 inches, taken within the last six months, and showing your face straight-on with a neutral expression.