Can I travel with my old passport while waiting for the new one?

No, you must submit your current passport with the renewal application. If you need to travel urgently, apply for expedited service and consider getting a temporary passport at a regional agency.

What if my marriage certificate is from another country?

Foreign marriage certificates must be translated into English by a certified translator and accompanied by the original or certified copy. The translation should include the translator's certification statement.

Do I need to update my passport immediately after marriage?

Only if you want to travel under your married name. You can continue using your passport with your maiden name until it expires, as long as it matches your travel documents.

Can I keep my maiden name on my passport?

Yes, you can choose any legal name for your passport. If keeping your maiden name, you don't need to submit a marriage certificate, just use the regular renewal process.

How to Renew Your Passport After Marriage

You'll need to apply for a passport renewal using Form DS-82 if your name changed, plus submit your marriage certificate, current passport, new passport photo, and $130 fee. Processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks for expedited service.

Check if you qualify for renewal. You can renew by mail if your current passport is undamaged, issued when you were 16 or older, issued within the last 15 years, and you can submit it with your application. If not, you'll need to apply in person.
Get your marriage certificate. Order a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the vital records office where you were married. This must be an official copy with raised seal or stamp - photocopies won't work.
Take a new passport photo. Get a new 2x2 inch passport photo taken within the last 6 months. Most pharmacies, post offices, and photo studios offer this service for $10-15.
Complete Form DS-82. Fill out the passport renewal form online at travel.state.gov or print and complete by hand. Use your married name as you want it to appear on the new passport.
Calculate your fees. Standard renewal costs $130 ($100 application fee + $30 acceptance fee). Add $60 for expedited service if needed. Include a check or money order made out to 'U.S. Department of State.'
Mail your application. Send everything to the National Passport Processing Center using trackable mail. Include: completed DS-82, current passport, marriage certificate, new photo, and payment.
Track your application. Check status online at travel.state.gov using your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of your Social Security number. You'll receive your new passport and original documents back separately.

Can I travel with my old passport while waiting for the new one?: No, you must submit your current passport with the renewal application. If you need to travel urgently, apply for expedited service and consider getting a temporary passport at a regional agency.
What if my marriage certificate is from another country?: Foreign marriage certificates must be translated into English by a certified translator and accompanied by the original or certified copy. The translation should include the translator's certification statement.
Do I need to update my passport immediately after marriage?: Only if you want to travel under your married name. You can continue using your passport with your maiden name until it expires, as long as it matches your travel documents.
Can I keep my maiden name on my passport?: Yes, you can choose any legal name for your passport. If keeping your maiden name, you don't need to submit a marriage certificate, just use the regular renewal process.