Airlines handle ticket name fixes in different ways. Some will correct a small typo for free. Others may charge a fee or make you reissue the ticket. The safest move is to act fast so your ticket name matches your ID at the airport.
To correct a name on a flight ticket, contact the airline (or the site you booked with), show proof of the right legal name, and pay any required fee or fare difference. Many airlines allow small spelling fixes. Most do not let you swap the ticket to a different person.
Key takeaways
- Check the airline’s name rules as soon as you spot an error.
- Have your booking reference, passport or ID, and any legal documents (marriage certificate, court order) ready.
- Expect possible costs: a fee, a fare difference, and maybe a service charge.
- After the update, confirm your new e-ticket shows the correct name and keep the confirmation email.
- Update hotels, car rentals, and other bookings so names match.
Gathering the necessary documentation for the name change
Once you know the airline’s rules, gather documents that support the change. Bring your ID and any legal paperwork that explains the name change.
If the change is due to marriage, you may need a marriage certificate. For divorce, you may need a divorce decree. For other legal changes, you may need a court order or other legal proof.
Keep your booking confirmation and the ID that matches the current ticket name. Having everything ready can speed things up.
Contacting the airline to start the name change process
Start with the airline (or the agency you booked with). Many carriers offer phone support, online chat, and “Manage booking” tools. Keep your booking reference ready.
Explain what needs to change and share documents if asked. Also ask about deadlines and whether the ticket must be reissued.
For a quick view of major airlines’ customer service commitments (U.S. carriers), you can check the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airline Customer Service Dashboard.
Paying the name change fee and any additional costs
Many airlines charge for name changes. Costs depend on the airline, your fare, and how close you are to departure. If the airline must reissue the ticket, you may also pay a fare difference.
| Cost type | What it can include |
|---|---|
| Name correction or change fee | A fixed service fee or a free correction for small typos, depending on the airline and fare. |
| Fare difference | The difference between the original fare and the current fare if the ticket is reissued. |
| Service charges | Call-center fees or travel agency fees, plus any applicable taxes. |
Ask how you can pay and whether your booking source charges a service fee.
Reviewing the updated ticket information
After the update, check your ticket. Confirm your name spelling and review your dates, times, and cities.
Save the updated email confirmation. Keep the old one too, just in case.
Updating other travel arrangements with the new name
Also update hotels, car rentals, and other bookings. Many providers check that your ID matches the reservation name.
Ensuring smooth check-in and boarding with the updated ticket
Arrive early for check-in, especially if the change was recent. Bring the updated ticket and an ID that matches it.
If an agent finds a mismatch, fix it right away. Early fixes can prevent boarding problems.
Tips for avoiding name change issues in the future
Before you pay, review every passenger’s name letter by letter. Use the legal name that appears on the ID you will travel with.
Keep travel documents organized so you can share proof fast. If you spot a mistake, contact the airline right away.
FAQs
What is the process for changing the name on an airline ticket?
Start with the airline or the company you booked through. They will confirm whether your request is a minor correction or a true name change, tell you what documents to provide, and explain whether the ticket must be reissued.
Can I change the name on an airline ticket for free?
Sometimes. Some airlines waive fees for small typos, especially soon after booking, but many charge a service fee and may require you to pay any fare difference if the ticket is reissued.
What documents are required to change the name on an airline ticket?
Airlines typically ask for a government-issued photo ID and, for legal name changes, supporting documents such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Are there restrictions on changing the name on an airline ticket?
Yes. Many carriers limit changes close to departure and may only allow corrections to match the same traveler’s legal ID, not a transfer to someone else.
Can I transfer my airline ticket to someone else if I can’t change the name?
Usually not. Most airlines treat full passenger swaps as prohibited transfers, so the typical alternative is to cancel (if allowed) or buy a new ticket for the new traveler.