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Step 4: Passport

Your passport is likely the last form of ID that you’ll need to change and thankfully, it can all be done by mail! It usually takes 8 weeks to process a name change on a passport, though you can pay to have it expedited, which takes 2-3 weeks. If you plan on traveling abroad shortly after your wedding, we recommend waiting to start the name change process until after you return from your travels, this way you don’t run into any unnecessary hiccups in customs.

There are two different filing procedures for changing your name on your passport, one if you are filing the change less than one year after your passport was issued, and one if you are filing the change more than one year after your passport was issued. Here is what is required for both:

Filing Name Change Less Than ONE Year After Passport Was Issued

“Please submit the following by mail:

Form DS-5504

Your most recent U.S. passport

Your original or certified name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order

One color passport photo

Please note: You will not have to submit any fees unless you request Expedited Service. You must send Form DS-5504 and supporting documents via USPS. UPS, FedEx, DHL, and other companies cannot deliver to the PO Box addresses listed on Form DS-5504.” - Travel.State.Gov

Filing Name Change More Than ONE Year After Passport Was Issued

“You may be eligible to renew your passport by mail using Form DS-82. If you are eligible to use Form DS-82*, please submit the following by mail:

Form DS-82

Your most recent U.S. passport

Your original or certified name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order

One color passport photo

Adult Renewal Applicant fees or Child Applicant fees, depending on your age

Please note: you must send Form DS-82 and supporting documents using USPS. UPS, FedEx, DHL, and other companies cannot deliver to the PO Box addresses listed on Form DS-82.

If you are not eligible to renew your passport by mail using Form DS-82, you should apply in-person. Please submit the following:

Form DS-11

Your evidence of U.S. citizenship and photocopy of that evidence

Your original or certified name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order (no photocopies or notarized copies)

Valid ID and photocopy of that ID

One color passport photo

Adult First-Time Applicant fees or Child Applicant fees, depending on your age

Please note: You do not need to submit proof of the name change if your name has changed due to marriage and you present an ID issued in your new name. You must include the details of the marriage in the appropriate section on Form DS-11.” - Travel.State.Gov