Passport Issues

This information is for those in the U.S.I'm facing a passport problem that might be common among those of a certain age. I used my nickname for my first passport, the same name I used for everything else: driver's license, library card, debit cards, credit cards, car loans, mortgages - everything. Every passport renewal used the same nickname.But gradually through the decades businesses and government departments became stricter and stricter about names, and now everything is in my full name, except my passport. I'm afraid my passport name being different from my name on everything else might eventually cause problems during travel.I am in the process of fixing this problem and can say that it isn't easy, but only because the online instructions for how to fix it aren't clear (U.S. State Department Passport Renewal). If you call the passport number (877-487-2778) you are likely to reach someone who doesn't have the correct answer. Here's how to get your full name on your passport.

• Obtain form DS-11 and fill it out (Form DS-11 PDF)
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  This is the form that people use when applying for the first time, and you probably believe you shouldn't be using this form, but if you're changing from your nickname to your full name then they treat it as if you're applying for the first time.
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  When you read the instructions, or when you talk to someone in person, they won't explain it in this way. Some will tell you to use Form DS-82 (passport renewal), and they'll even argue with you and become exasperated if you explain that you've already tried Form DS-82 and all that happened was that they took your money and didn't make the necessary name change, which is why you're calling. Others will tell you to use that same form but just provide additional documentation and a letter. They're wrong, too. Some will correctly tell you to use Form DS-11 but still call it a renewal, which it isn't.
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  Anyway, use Form DS-11.
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• Provide a passport photo, which you'll attach at the designated place on the Form DS-11.
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• Provide a certified copy of your birth certificate. This means one with a raised seal and all that. My guess is that they return this to you when they mail you your new passport.
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• Provide a photocopy of your birth certificate. My guess is that they keep the photocopy.
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• Provide a front and back copy of your driver's license or other ID that has your full name on it.
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• DO NOT provide your current passport. This is a new passport application. If you include your old passport it may cause confusion.
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• Go to your local passport acceptance facility. This is often a post office, library or town or county clerk's office.
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• Two payments are required. One is for the State Department. Bring your checkbook. Money orders are also accepted. Currently it is $130.
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• The other payment is for the passport acceptance facility. They vary in the forms of payment they accept. Currently it is $35.

--Percy