Can I travel with my old passport if I just got married?

Yes, you can travel on your old passport as long as it's not expired and you bring your marriage certificate. However, your ticket and hotel reservations must match the name on your passport exactly, so book everything under your old name until you get your new passport.

What if I've been married for several years but never updated my passport?

You'll need to apply in person with Form DS-11 and pay both the passport fee ($130) and execution fee ($35). The one-year rule for mail renewal only applies if you've had a passport in your new name before.

Do I need to update my Social Security card first?

It's smart to update your Social Security card before applying for your passport, as some acceptance agents may ask for it as additional proof of your new name. The Social Security office is free and usually faster than passport processing.

What if I'm divorced and want my maiden name back?

You'll need a certified copy of your divorce decree that specifically states your name is restored to your former name. If the divorce decree doesn't mention name restoration, you'll need a separate court order.

How to Renew Your Passport After Marriage or Name Change

You'll need to apply for a passport renewal by mail (Form DS-82) if your name change was recent, or in person (Form DS-11) if it's been over a year since your name changed. Bring certified copies of your marriage certificate or court order, plus your current passport and a new photo.

Determine which application form you need. Use Form DS-82 (renewal by mail) if your name changed within the past year and your current passport is undamaged. Use Form DS-11 (new application in person) if your name changed more than a year ago, your passport is damaged, or you've never had a passport in your new name.
Gather your name change documentation. Get a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the vital records office where you were married. If you changed your name through court order, get a certified copy of that instead. Photocopies won't work - you need the official certified version with the raised seal.
Get a new passport photo. Take a new 2x2 inch passport photo within 6 months of applying. Many pharmacies and post offices offer this service for $10-15. Your photo must reflect your current appearance, so if you've changed your hair significantly since your last passport, get a new photo even if your old one is recent.
Complete the application form. Fill out either DS-82 or DS-11 completely. In the name fields, use your new legal name as it appears on your marriage certificate or court order. Don't leave any fields blank - write 'N/A' if something doesn't apply to you.
Submit your application. For DS-82 (mail renewal): Mail everything to the address on the form with a check for $130. For DS-11 (in-person): Visit an acceptance facility like a post office or courthouse. Bring your documents, a check for $130, plus a $35 execution fee. You'll need to sign the application in front of an agent.
Track your application. Processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks for expedited service (add $60). Check status online at travel.state.gov using your last name and date of birth. Your old passport will be returned to you with holes punched through it.

Can I travel with my old passport if I just got married?: Yes, you can travel on your old passport as long as it's not expired and you bring your marriage certificate. However, your ticket and hotel reservations must match the name on your passport exactly, so book everything under your old name until you get your new passport.
What if I've been married for several years but never updated my passport?: You'll need to apply in person with Form DS-11 and pay both the passport fee ($130) and execution fee ($35). The one-year rule for mail renewal only applies if you've had a passport in your new name before.
Do I need to update my Social Security card first?: It's smart to update your Social Security card before applying for your passport, as some acceptance agents may ask for it as additional proof of your new name. The Social Security office is free and usually faster than passport processing.
What if I'm divorced and want my maiden name back?: You'll need a certified copy of your divorce decree that specifically states your name is restored to your former name. If the divorce decree doesn't mention name restoration, you'll need a separate court order.