How to Update Your Name with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

 

 

If you’ve changed your legal name, it’s critical to update your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry records. Name mismatches between your ID and these programs can cause delays, extra screenings, or even denial of benefits. Here’s a quick guide:

• Why Update? TSA and Global Entry require your name to match exactly across all documents, including your passport, ID, and traveler profile.
• What You Need: Updated ID (like a passport or driver’s license) and a legal name change document (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
• How to Update TSA PreCheck: Submit your updated documents to your enrollment provider via email, fax, or in-person. Processing can take up to 45 days.
• How to Update Global Entry: Update your profile online at the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) portal and visit an enrollment center with required documents. Changes take effect immediately after approval.
• Timing: Start early – TSA updates may take weeks, and Global Entry centers may have long wait times.

Tip: If your Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, updating Global Entry will automatically update TSA PreCheck.

For a hassle-free process, ensure all documents match exactly and plan ahead to avoid travel disruptions.

Documents You Need for Name Changes

 

To update your name with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you’ll need the right documents. While the requirements for each program are slightly different, both demand official proof of your legal name change and updated identification. Here’s what you need to know for each program.

TSA PreCheck Name Change Documents

 

 

For TSA PreCheck, you’ll need two key items:

• An updated government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport, that reflects your new name.
• A legal name change document. If you’re using a marriage certificate, it must include a government seal. For a divorce decree, you’ll need to provide the first page, the page showing the name change, and the signature page. Court orders for legal name changes are also accepted.

Keep in mind that TSA does not accept Social Security cards or hospital-issued birth certificates. If you’re already a TSA PreCheck member, you can send your documents via email to [email protected] or fax them to 540-373-0620.

Global Entry Name Change Documents

 

 

 

For Global Entry, the requirements are slightly different. You’ll need:

• Your updated U.S. passport showing your new legal name.
• Your original Global Entry card.
• The same type of official legal name change document required for TSA PreCheck, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Since April 2025, Global Entry offers an online option for name changes. To use it, visit help.cbp.gov, select “Ask a Question”, and follow these steps:

• Under “Topic”, choose “Trusted Traveler Program.”
• Under “Applicable Issue”, select “Update documents in my account.”
• Under “TCC Program”, pick “TTP: Global Entry.”
• In the description box, type “name change on account” and attach a color copy of your updated passport.

This process can take up to eight weeks, and in some cases, you may still need to visit an enrollment center in person. While updating your name in Global Entry is free, ordering a new card with your updated name will cost $25.

Why All Your Documents Must Match

 

Consistency across all your documents is absolutely critical. Your first, middle, and last names, as well as any suffixes and spacing, must match exactly to avoid processing delays.

For example, if your marriage certificate lists “Mary Jane Smith-Johnson” but your updated passport says “Mary J. Smith-Johnson”, this mismatch could hold up your application.

One helpful tip: if your TSA PreCheck membership comes through Global Entry, updating your name with Global Entry will automatically update your TSA PreCheck information. However, the reverse is not true – updating your TSA PreCheck profile won’t affect your Global Entry account.

How to Update Your TSA PreCheck Name

Updating your TSA PreCheck name involves three steps and can take up to 45 days to complete. Here’s how to ensure a smooth process.

Locate and Contact Your Enrollment Provider

Start by identifying your enrollment provider. You can find this information in your confirmation email or on your membership card. Once located, reach out to them to begin the name change process. Be sure to ask about the specific documents they require and how long the process typically takes, as procedures can vary.

Submit the Necessary Documents

Provide your updated photo ID and legal name change document according to your provider’s instructions. Depending on their process, you may need to submit these documents online, by mail, or in person at an enrollment center. If you’re submitting documents electronically, make sure the scans or photos are clear and legible – blurry images can cause delays. Double-check that the name on all documents matches to avoid any issues that might restart the process.

Await Approval of Your Name Change

The approval process can take up to 45 days. During this time, your TSA PreCheck benefits will be inactive. To check the status of your request, contact your enrollment provider through their customer service line, online portal, or email. Be sure to have your confirmation number handy.

Important: Avoid booking flights under your new name until you receive official confirmation that your TSA PreCheck name change has been approved. If you travel before the update is finalized, you won’t be able to use TSA PreCheck lanes because the name on your ticket won’t match your membership. If you have travel plans within the next two months, contact your provider to inquire about expedited processing options.

How to Update Your Global Entry Name

Changing your name on your Global Entry account involves updating your online profile and completing an in-person visit.

Update Your Profile in the TTP System

Start by logging into your Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account and updating your personal details to match your new passport and legal documents. Head to the profile section, make the necessary changes to reflect your new legal name, and save them.

Before you begin, make sure your passport already shows your updated name. Once your profile is updated, you’ll need to verify the changes in person at an enrollment center.

Visit a Global Entry Enrollment Center

After updating your profile online, head to a Global Entry enrollment center to finalize the process. Unlike the initial interview for Global Entry, most centers don’t require an appointment for name changes.

Bring these documents with you:

• Your updated passport
• Official name change documentation
• Your current Global Entry card

It’s a good idea to call the enrollment center ahead of time to confirm their hours and any specific document requirements. Once there, the staff will review your paperwork and update your records on the spot.

Immediate Updates to Your Account

Once the enrollment center approves your name change, the update takes effect immediately. You can start using Global Entry kiosks and TSA PreCheck lanes with your new identification right away.

Your Known Traveler Number (KTN) doesn’t change after a name update, so there’s no need to adjust your airline profiles or frequent flyer accounts. Since Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits, your updated name will automatically apply to TSA PreCheck as well.

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How to Avoid Delays and Mistakes

Double-Check That All Documents Match

Before submitting any paperwork, make sure your first, middle, and last names – along with any suffixes and spacing – are consistent across all documents. Even small differences between your updated passport, driver’s license, and legal name change records can cause delays and force you to start over.

Start Early to Prevent Travel Issues

TSA PreCheck updates can take up to 45 days, so it’s smart to get started as soon as possible. Once you have your new passport and legal documents, begin updating everything right away. This helps ensure there are no hiccups with your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry accounts, keeping your travel plans running smoothly.

Time Enrollment Center Visits Wisely

If you need to visit a Global Entry enrollment center, plan your trip well ahead of any travel dates. Most centers don’t require appointments for name changes, but it’s still a good idea to call ahead to confirm their hours and availability. Make sure all your documents are in order and schedule your visit early to avoid any last-minute stress.

How UpdateMyName.com Makes This Process Easier

 

 

 

 

Updating your name with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry can feel like a maze of forms, documentation, and strict formatting rules. One small mistake, and you might find yourself back at square one. That’s where UpdateMyName.com steps in. Their tools are designed to simplify the process, ensuring your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry updates are handled quickly and accurately. By automating much of the work and offering federal-level support, they take the hassle out of what can otherwise be a frustrating task.

Pre-Filled Forms and Clear Instructions

No more scouring the internet for the right forms. UpdateMyName.com’s software does the heavy lifting for you. After you complete a quick questionnaire, the platform auto-populates the necessary forms for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, Social Security, U.S. Passport, Driver’s License, and even Vehicle Title & Registration. Each form comes with step-by-step instructions, so you’ll know exactly what to submit, where to send it, and what to expect during processing.

“Fill out our short name change questionnaire and our software auto-populates the necessary name-change forms to create a custom kit, just for you.” – UpdateMyName.com

Save Time and Avoid Errors

Thanks to its automated system, UpdateMyName.com slashes processing time. Most forms are ready to sign in just 4 minutes, saving customers an average of 4.8 hours compared to doing it manually. One of the biggest pitfalls with manual name changes is inconsistency – small differences in how your name or address is recorded across documents can lead to delays or rejections. UpdateMyName.com eliminates this issue by using the same set of information to populate every form, ensuring everything matches perfectly across agencies like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry.

“Changing names is even faster than I expected. The auto-filled forms saved me hours of time!!!” – Jenna, Verified Customer

Since 2016, over 2,392 customers have used the platform, and its tools have been fine-tuned to meet federal agency requirements, making the process as seamless as possible.

Extra Support and Premium Services

To cater to different needs and budgets, UpdateMyName.com offers three service tiers:

• Print At Home Package: Includes auto-filled forms, online access, detailed instructions, and premium support.
• Full Service Package: Adds printed forms and pre-paid postage envelopes, so you don’t have to worry about printing or mailing.
• Platinum Package: Offers everything in the Full Service Package plus VIP concierge service and a free printed passport photo.

Every package comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not completely happy, you can return unused kits within 14 days for a full refund. This peace of mind ensures your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry name updates are as smooth and error-free as possible.

Conclusion: Making Your Name Change Go Smoothly

 

Updating your name with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry can be a straightforward process when approached with proper planning and attention to detail.

The key is ensuring that all your documents – such as your driver’s license, passport, and legal name change record – match exactly. Even small inconsistencies in spelling or formatting can lead to delays. Before submitting anything to TSA or CBP, double-check that your Social Security card, driver’s license, and passport all reflect your new name consistently.

Timing is another critical factor. TSA PreCheck name changes can take several weeks to process, while appointments at Global Entry enrollment centers often fill up months in advance. If you have travel plans on the horizon, give yourself plenty of time to handle any unexpected hiccups without risking your travel schedule.

The name change process involves navigating multiple federal and state agencies, each with their own rules and timelines. Updating TSA PreCheck and Global Entry is just one part of the journey, but it’s often the most time-sensitive since it directly impacts your ability to travel without disruptions.

Whether you choose to manage the process yourself or use tools to simplify it, the most important things are to stay organized and remain patient. With the right preparation and accurate documentation, your name change will be processed successfully, keeping your trusted traveler benefits intact.

FAQs

What should I do if my TSA PreCheck or Global Entry name change isn’t complete and I have upcoming travel?

If you’re in the middle of a name change with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry and have upcoming travel, don’t stress – there are ways to navigate the situation smoothly.

For TSA PreCheck, reach out to their customer service team at 855-347-8371. They’re available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET, and can guide you on what steps to take next. For Global Entry, once your name change is finalized, you can bring your legal name change documents and updated ID to an enrollment center to update your information.

In the meantime, double-check that the name on your travel reservations matches the name on your current travel documents. This simple step can help you avoid hiccups at security checkpoints while your updates are being processed.

What steps should I take to ensure my documents match for a smooth TSA PreCheck and Global Entry name update?

When updating your name with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, it’s crucial to ensure that all your documents – like your passport, driver’s license, and any legal name change paperwork – match perfectly. Make sure to use original or certified copies of these documents when submitting your application to avoid any unnecessary delays.

If you’ve changed your name, you may need to visit an enrollment center in person to update your records. Confirm that the name on your TSA PreCheck and Global Entry accounts aligns exactly with the name on your travel documents. This step is key to smooth processing and stress-free travel.

Can I speed up the process of updating my name for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?

If you’re in a hurry to get your name changed, there are a couple of ways to speed things up:

• TSA PreCheck: Reach out to their customer service team at 855-347-8371. They’re available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, and can guide you on faster processing options.
• Global Entry: The fastest way to update your information is by visiting an enrollment center in person. Be sure to bring all the necessary documents to avoid any delays and get your name updated as quickly as possible.