You can change your name on TSA PreCheck through the TSA website, by phone, or in person at an enrollment center — the method depends on whether your legal name changed or you made a mistake on your original process.
If your legal name changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you will need to update it in the TSA system. If you straightforward entered your name wrong when you first signed up, the process is faster. TSA PreCheck does not automatically sync with state ID databases, so the name in your TSA account can differ from your driver's license until you update it yourself.
The fastest route for most people is the TSA website. You log into your account, navigate to your profile, and submit a name change request with supporting documents. Processing usually takes two to four weeks. If you prefer to handle it in person or do not have access to the documents you need right now, you can visit a TSA enrollment center or call the TSA PreCheck customer service line.
Key Takeaways
- You can update your name online through the TSA website, by phone at 1-855-347-8371, or at a TSA enrollment center in your area.
- A legal name change requires a certified copy of the document that proves it — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your updated ID.
- A correction to a name you entered incorrectly may process faster and may not require as much documentation; contact TSA to confirm what you need.
- Your TSA PreCheck membership stays active while your name change is being processed, so you can continue using your known traveler number at airport security.
Changing Your Name Online Through the TSA Website
Log into your TSA PreCheck account at the official TSA website. Click on your profile or account settings, then look for an option to update your personal information. Select the name change option and enter your new legal name exactly as it appears on your current government-issued ID.
Upload a scanned copy of the document that proves your name change. For a marriage, this is a certified copy of your marriage certificate. For a divorce, it is a certified copy of your divorce decree. For a court-ordered name change, upload the court order itself. These must be certified copies, not photocopies — your state's vital records office or the court that issued the document can provide them.
Also upload a clear photo of your current government-issued ID — driver's license, passport, or state ID — showing your new name. Submit the request and wait for TSA to review it. You will receive an email confirmation with a reference number. Processing typically takes two to four weeks, though it can take longer during peak travel seasons.
Correcting a Name You Entered Incorrectly
If you misspelled your name, reversed your first and last name, or left out a middle name when you first signed up, contact TSA directly rather than trying to update it online. Call 1-855-347-8371 during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time, or Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time.
Explain the error to the TSA representative. For a straightforward typo or spelling mistake, TSA may be able to correct it without requiring additional documents. If the error is more significant — such as a missing middle name that appears on your ID — you may still need to provide a copy of your current ID to confirm the correct spelling.
Ask the representative how long the correction will take and whether your known traveler number will remain active during the process. In most cases, corrections process faster than legal name changes because they do not require certified vital records.
Updating Your Name at a TSA Enrollment Center
Find a TSA PreCheck enrollment center near you by visiting the TSA website and using their location search tool. You can walk in without an appointment at most centers, though some accept appointments only. Bring your current government-issued ID and the certified document proving your name change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
A TSA officer will review your documents, verify your identity, and submit the name change request on your behalf. This method takes longer in the moment — plan for 15 to 30 minutes — but you get confirmation that your documents were received and accepted. Processing after your visit still takes two to four weeks.
This option works well if you do not have a scanner at home, prefer to handle things in person, or want to ask questions face-to-face. Some enrollment centers are located inside airport terminals, so you can update your name while traveling if needed.
What Happens to Your Known Traveler Number During the Change
Your known traveler number (KTN) remains active and valid while TSA processes your name change. You can continue using it at airport security checkpoints without interruption. The TSA system will eventually match your updated name to your KTN, but this happens behind the scenes and does not affect your ability to use PreCheck.
When you reach security, present your ID with your new name and provide your KTN as usual. TSA officers will see both your old and new names in the system during the transition period, and this is normal. Once the name change is fully processed, only your new name will appear.
Documents You Need for a Legal Name Change
TSA requires a certified copy of the official document that proves your name changed legally. A certified copy means it has been stamped or sealed by the government office that issued it, confirming it is a true copy of the original.
| Type of Name Change | Document Needed | Where to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage | Certified marriage certificate | Vital records office in the state where you were married |
| Divorce | Certified divorce decree | Court clerk's office in the county where the divorce was finalized |
| Court-ordered name change | Certified court order | Court clerk's office in the county where the order was issued |
Do not send originals to TSA. Scan or photograph the certified copy clearly and upload it through the website, or bring the certified copy to an enrollment center. Keep your original documents for your own records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my TSA PreCheck while my name change is being processed?
Yes. Your known traveler number stays active throughout the process. Present your current ID and your KTN at security as usual. TSA will see both your old and new names in the system during the transition, and this will not delay you.
Do I need to renew my TSA PreCheck membership after changing my name?
No. A name change does not reset your membership or expiration date. Your PreCheck membership continues as is. When it comes time to renew — usually five years after you enrolled — you will renew under your new legal name.
What if I do not have a certified copy of my marriage certificate or divorce decree?
Contact the vital records office in the state where you were married or divorced. Most states allow you to order certified copies online, by mail, or in person. There is usually a small fee, and processing takes one to three weeks. Some states offer rush processing for an additional charge.
How long does it take to change my name if I made a typo?
A straightforward spelling error or typo typically processes within one to two weeks if you call TSA directly. Legal name changes take longer — usually two to four weeks — because TSA must verify the certified documents you provide.
What if TSA rejects my name change request?
TSA will send you an email explaining why the request was denied. Common reasons include unclear document scans, documents that do not match your current ID, or missing information. Reply to the email with corrected documents or call 1-855-347-8371 to ask what you need to resubmit.