You can change your name on Global Entry through the Trusted Traveler Program website, but the process depends on whether you've already renewed your membership or are still within your current term
If your legal name has changed—through marriage, divorce, court order, or any other reason—you'll need to update it in the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) Trusted Traveler Program system. The steps differ based on your membership status. If you're still within your current Global Entry membership period, you can request a name change online without paying a renewal fee. If your membership has expired or you're renewing soon anyway, you'll go through the standard renewal process and pay the renewal cost.
The fastest route is to log into your Trusted Traveler Program account at universalenroll.dhs.gov and look for the profile update option. You'll need your current legal name documentation—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order—ready to upload. The TSA will review your request, and you should hear back within a few weeks.
Key Takeaways
- Log into your Trusted Traveler Program account at universalenroll.dhs.gov to update your name without leaving home.
- You will need to upload a legal document proving your name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
- If you are still within your membership term, you can request a name change at no cost; if your membership is expiring soon, you may pay the renewal fee instead.
- The TSA typically reviews name change requests within two to four weeks.
- If your card arrives with the old name, contact the TSA enrollment center where you originally enrolled to request a replacement card.
Updating Your Name Online Through Your Account
Start by going to universalenroll.dhs.gov and signing in with your username and password. If you've forgotten your login, use the "Forgot Username" or "Forgot Password" link on the homepage. Once you're logged in, look for a section labeled "Update Profile," "Edit Profile," or "Manage Account"—the exact wording varies slightly depending when your account was created.
Click into the name field and enter your new legal name exactly as it appears on your legal document. The system will then prompt you to upload proof of the name change. Acceptable documents include a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or naturalization certificate. Take a clear photo or scan of the document and upload it as a PDF or JPG file. Make sure the document is legible and shows your old name and new name (or the date the change became official).
After you submit the update, you'll receive a confirmation number. Write this down or take a screenshot. The TSA will send you an email when they've reviewed your request. If everything is in order, your account will be updated and your next card will be printed with your new name. If they need more information, they'll contact you through the email address on file.
What Happens If Your Membership Is Expiring Soon
If your Global Entry membership expires within the next few months, you have two choices: request a name change now and then renew later, or combine both into one renewal transaction. Most people find it simpler to renew and update the name at the same time, since you're paying the renewal fee anyway.
To renew and update your name together, log into your account and select "Renew Membership." The renewal form will ask you to confirm your personal information. Update your name field at that point and upload your legal document proving the change. You'll pay the standard Global Entry renewal fee (currently $100 for five years, though this amount can change). Processing takes the same two to four weeks, and your new card will arrive with your updated name.
If Your Card Arrives With Your Old Name
Sometimes the TSA processes your name change in the system but the physical card is already printed or in transit with your old name. If this happens, contact the enrollment center where you originally enrolled in Global Entry. You can find the center nearest you on the TSA's Trusted Traveler Program website under "Locations."
Call the center and explain that your card arrived with your old name. Provide your confirmation number from the name change request and your new legal name. They can issue a replacement card at no additional cost. The replacement usually arrives within two to three weeks. In the meantime, you can still use Global Entry at airport kiosks because your account in the system has your correct name—the card is just a physical backup.
What Documents Prove a Legal Name Change
The TSA accepts specific documents as proof of a name change. A certified marriage certificate is the most common—it must show both your maiden name and married name, or show your name before and after the marriage. A divorce decree works if it shows your name reverting to a previous name or changing to a new name. A court order for a legal name change must be certified and show the old and new names clearly.
If you became a U.S. citizen and your name changed during naturalization, your naturalization certificate counts as proof. Some states also issue a separate name change document; if yours does, that works too. The document does not have to be the original—a certified copy is fine. Make sure whatever you upload is clear enough to read both names and the date the change became official.
When to Call the TSA Enrollment Center Instead
If you don't have online access, can't upload documents, or your account isn't working, you can request a name change by phone or in person. Call the enrollment center where you originally enrolled and ask to update your name. They'll ask you to mail or bring in your legal document proving the change. Processing by mail takes longer—usually four to six weeks—because the document has to be received, scanned, and reviewed by hand.
If you prefer to do it in person, make an appointment at your local enrollment center. Bring your current Global Entry card, your passport or Real ID driver's license, and the original or certified copy of your name change document. An officer will review everything on the spot, take new photos if needed, and order your replacement card. In-person appointments often move faster than mail requests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name on Global Entry if my membership already expired?
Yes, but you'll need to renew your membership at the same time. You cannot update just the name on an expired account—you have to pay the renewal fee. Log into your account, select "Renew Membership," update your name, and upload your legal document. The renewal fee is currently $100 for five years.
How long does it take to get a new card after I request a name change?
If you request the change online, the TSA typically reviews it within two to four weeks. Once approved, your new card is printed and mailed to you, which takes another one to two weeks. Total time is usually three to six weeks. If you go in person to an enrollment center, the process is often faster.
What if I lost my Global Entry card and need to change my name at the same time?
You can request both a replacement card and a name change in one transaction. Log into your account, update your name, and upload your legal document. In the notes section, mention that your card was lost. The TSA will process both requests together and send you a new card with your updated name.
Do I have to pay again if I just got Global Entry and now my name changed?
No. If your membership is still active and hasn't expired, you can request a name change at no cost. Log into your account, update your name, and upload your legal document. You won't be charged anything. You only pay if your membership is expiring and you're renewing it anyway.
Can I change my name by mail instead of online?
Yes. Mail a copy of your legal name change document and a letter with your current Global Entry number and new name to the enrollment center where you originally enrolled. Include a return address. Processing by mail takes four to six weeks. Calling the center first to confirm their mailing address is faster than looking it up online.