After obtaining a legal name change through the courts, it’s important to update your passport so your identification documents all match. Whether you’re traveling internationally or applying for other government IDs, your passport should reflect your current legal name.

The process to update your passport depends on how long ago your current passport was issued. At National Security Law Firm, we help clients across New Jersey not only obtain legal name changes, but also navigate the complex web of follow-up steps—including passport updates.

Here’s everything you need to know.

📌 Which Form Do You Need?

There are three different forms you might use, depending on your situation:

Form Use If…
DS-5504 Your current passport was issued less than 1 year ago
DS-82 Your current passport was issued more than 1 year ago and you’re eligible to renew by mail
DS-11 You’re not eligible to renew by mail (e.g., your passport is too old, damaged, or lost)

Let’s walk through each scenario.

✅ Option 1: If Your Passport Was Issued Less Than One Year Ago

You can apply for a free replacement passport using Form DS-5504.

What to Submit:

  • Completed Form DS-5504

  • Your current passport

  • Certified copy of your name change court order

  • One passport photo that meets State Department standards

  • No fee required (unless you need expedited service)

Where to Send:

Mail your application to the address listed on the DS-5504 form instructions. Processing takes 6–8 weeks (or faster with expedited service).

👉 Download Form DS-5504

✅ Option 2: If Your Passport Was Issued More Than One Year Ago

You’ll need to renew your passport using Form DS-82.

Eligibility:

  • Your passport is undamaged and issued within the last 15 years

  • You were age 16+ when it was issued

  • You still have your passport

  • You’re using the same photo or a new one that meets standards

What to Submit:

  • Completed Form DS-82

  • Your most recent passport

  • Certified name change court order

  • One passport photo

  • Fee payment of $130 (check or money order to U.S. Department of State)

Where to Send:

Mail to the address listed on the DS-82 instructions, depending on whether you’re requesting expedited service.

👉 Download Form DS-82

✅ Option 3: If You’re Not Eligible to Renew by Mail

Use Form DS-11 if:

  • Your passport was issued more than 15 years ago

  • You were under age 16 at the time of issue

  • You lost or damaged your old passport

  • You don’t meet renewal requirements

What to Submit:

  • Completed Form DS-11

  • Certified name change court order

  • Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license)

  • Proof of citizenship (e.g., old passport or birth certificate)

  • One passport photo

  • Fee payment of $130

Where to Apply:

You must apply in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility. You can find one near you here:
🔎 Passport Acceptance Facility Locator

👉 Download Form DS-11

🔄 Do You Need Expedited Processing?

If you’re traveling soon and need your updated passport quickly, you can request expedited service (usually within 2–3 weeks). This requires:

  • An additional $60 fee

  • Writing “EXPEDITE” on the outer envelope

  • Using priority mailing services

🧾 What Counts as Proof of Legal Name Change?

The U.S. Department of State requires a certified copy of one of the following:

  • Court order granting your legal name change

  • Divorce decree showing name change

  • Marriage certificate (if changing to spouse’s name)

At NSLF, we ensure our clients receive certified court orders that are fully compliant with U.S. passport requirements.

💼 NSLF Can Help With:

  • Full name change petitions for adults, minors, and families

  • Filing motions to seal records for safety or privacy

  • Amending birth certificates after a name change

  • Step-by-step assistance updating Social Security, MVC, and passport records

  • Flat fee pricing and financing options available

💵 Pricing

If you’ve already completed your name change with us, we offer passport update guidance at no additional charge.

Need help getting started? Our flat fees include:

  • Legal Name Change Petition (Adult or Minor): $1,695

  • Contested Minor Name Changes: $3,500

  • Birth Certificate Amendment: $300

  • Motion to Seal (Optional): $1,000

Financing is available through Affirm.

📚 Want the Full Picture?

For a detailed walkthrough of the entire New Jersey name change process — including eligibility, court procedures, timelines, costs, and FAQs — be sure to check out our Comprehensive Name Change Guide.

Whether you’re changing your name for personal, cultural, or gender identity reasons, this resource covers everything you need to know.

Ready to Take the First Step?

We offer free consultations and confidential support. Booking online is the fastest and easiest way to get started.

📅 Schedule Your Free Consultation Now