Changing the name on your Delta Airlines ticket can be straightforward when you understand the applicable rules. Whether you made a spelling mistake, changed your legal name after marriage or divorce, or need to update passenger information, acting early can help prevent check-in problems.
What Is the Delta Airlines Name Change Policy?
Delta may allow eligible passengers to correct or update their names in certain circumstances. The purpose of a name correction is to ensure that the passenger information on the reservation matches the traveller's identification.
Depending on the situation, passengers may request:
- Correction of a spelling mistake
- Correction of an incorrect first or last name
- Middle name correction
- Legal name update after marriage
- Legal name update after divorce
- A court-approved legal name change
A ticket generally cannot be transferred from the original passenger to a completely different person.
Types of Name Changes and Corrections
Minor Name Corrections
Minor corrections may apply when the reservation contains a typing or spelling error.
- Misspelled first name
- Incorrect surname spelling
- Missing letters
- Typing errors
- Middle name corrections
Legal Name Changes
Legal name updates may require official documentation.
- Marriage
- Divorce
- Court order
- Legal identity update
- Government-approved name change
Correction Example
Incorrect: Jonh Smith
Correct: John Smith
How to Change Your Name on a Delta Airlines Ticket
Review Your Booking
Find your confirmation email and check the passenger name, booking reference, flight date, destination, and itinerary.
Identify the Type of Change
Determine whether you need a simple spelling correction, a middle name update, or a legal name change.
Gather the Required Documents
Prepare your passport, driving licence, marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or other supporting document, depending on the request.
Contact Delta Airlines
Use Delta's official customer support channels. Provide your booking reference, the correct passenger name, and supporting documents where required.
Verify the Updated Reservation
Review the revised itinerary and confirm that the updated passenger name matches the identification you will use during travel.
Documents Required for a Name Change
| Situation | Possible Documents Required |
|---|---|
| Spelling error | Government-issued identification |
| Name change after marriage | Marriage certificate and updated ID |
| Name change after divorce | Divorce decree and updated ID |
| Court-approved name change | Court order or legal name change document |
| Passport mismatch | Valid passport and supporting documentation |
The exact documentation required may depend on the booking, route, ticket conditions, and type of correction.
Delta Airlines Name Change Fee
The cost of correcting or updating a passenger name can depend on several factors:
A minor spelling correction may be handled differently from a legal name change. Always verify the current conditions directly through Delta's official channels before requesting a modification.
Important Rules to Remember
- The ticket name should match your passport or government-issued identification.
- Correct errors as soon as possible after making the reservation.
- Keep your booking confirmation and supporting documents available.
- Check the updated reservation after the correction is processed.
- International passengers should resolve name mismatches well before departure.
- A name correction does not normally allow the ticket to be transferred to another passenger.
Common Reasons for Name Correction Requests
Tips to Avoid Passenger Name Problems
- Enter your legal name exactly as shown on your identification.
- Check the spelling of your first, middle, and last names before making payment.
- Avoid using nicknames or shortened names.
- Verify passport details carefully for international journeys.
- Review the confirmation email immediately after booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
A spelling error or legal name mismatch does not always mean you need to cancel your journey. Start by reviewing the booking, identifying the type of correction, and preparing the relevant documents.
Request the change as early as possible and confirm that the updated ticket matches the identification you will present at the airport.