Booking a flight and later noticing your name is incorrect can be frustrating, especially when traveling with a major carrier like Delta Airlines. Whether it’s a simple typo or a full legal name change, Delta provides several ways to update your name on your reservation. If you’re asking How to Change Your Name on Delta Airlines, this complete guide covers all scenarios—step-by-step instructions, documentation needed, fees involved, and more.
Why It’s Important to Have the Correct Name on Your Ticket
The name on your Delta Airlines ticket must match your government-issued ID or passport exactly. Even a small spelling mistake can lead to issues with airport security or boarding.
Failing to fix incorrect name details may result in:
- Denied boarding
- Trouble at TSA security checks
- Extra change or cancellation fees
That’s why it’s essential to check your ticket details immediately after booking and correct any errors as soon as possible.
Types of Name Changes Delta Airlines Allows
Before you start the process, it’s helpful to understand the type of name correction or change you need.
1. Minor Name Corrections
These are small adjustments that don’t change the passenger’s identity:
- Typo (e.g., “Jonh” instead of “John”)
- Missing or incorrect middle initial
- Incorrect title (e.g., Mr. instead of Ms.)
- Swapped letters in the first or last name
2. Major or Legal Name Changes
These involve a legal reason or full change:
- Marriage or divorce
- Gender marker or identity changes
- Court-ordered name change
- Passport or ID name updates
Delta treats these differently than small corrections and often requires documentation.
How to Change Your Name on Delta Airlines: Step-by-Step
Here’s a breakdown of how to correct or change your name depending on the situation.
Option 1: Change Name Online via Delta’s Website
For minor corrections, you may be able to update your name directly online.
Steps:
- Go to Delta.com
- Click on “My Trips”
- Enter your confirmation number and last name
- Select your booking
- Choose “Edit Passenger Info”
- Correct your name (if the option is available)
Delta allows small edits—usually up to three characters—on tickets booked directly through them. If your ticket was issued by a partner airline or third-party, this option may not appear.
Option 2: Contact Delta Customer Service
If the online method doesn’t work or your name change is more complex (legal name change, multiple corrections, etc.), call Delta's customer service.
Contact Details:
- Delta Reservations (U.S.): 1-800-221-1212
- International Numbers: Available at delta.com/contactus
Be ready to:
- Provide your booking confirmation number
- Explain the reason for the name change
- Email or upload legal documents, such as:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Passport or government-issued ID
- Court name change order
A Delta representative will guide you through the process and inform you of any applicable fees or reissuance requirements.
Option 3: Visit a Delta Ticket Counter at the Airport
If you're close to departure or prefer in-person help, visit the Delta counter at the airport. Bring your ID and any supporting documents. Allow extra time, especially during busy travel seasons, as on-site staff may need manager approval for certain changes.
Fees for Changing Your Name on Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines may or may not charge a fee depending on:
- The type of name correction
- Your fare class
- The timing of your change request
In general:
- Minor corrections: Usually free (especially if caught within 24 hours of booking)
- Legal name changes: May involve a ticket reissue fee or fare difference
- Basic Economy fares: Less flexible—changes may not be allowed
Always confirm fees with a Delta agent before proceeding.
Name Changes for SkyMiles Members
If you're a Delta SkyMiles member and your legal name has changed, you’ll also need to update your SkyMiles profile to match your ID.
How to do it:
- Log into your account at delta.com
- Go to My Profile > Personal Details
- Select “Edit Name”
- Upload the required documents (passport, marriage certificate, etc.)
- Submit the change request
This ensures your name is consistent across all future bookings and avoids check-in issues.
What If You Booked Through a Third Party?
If your Delta flight was booked through a travel agency or website like Expedia, Orbitz, or Priceline:
- Contact the third-party provider first
- They may be able to make minor corrections
- If not, request your ticket number and call Delta directly
Delta may not be able to make changes if the ticket is managed entirely by the third-party system, so always double-check with your booking source.
Can You Transfer a Ticket to Another Person?
No. Delta Airlines does not allow name changes that transfer a ticket to a different person. The ticket is non-transferable. Any name correction must apply to the original passenger and cannot alter their identity.
If someone else needs to travel, you must cancel the original ticket (if allowed) and rebook under the new traveler’s name.
How Long Does a Name Change Take?
- Minor edits: Usually immediate or same day
- Legal changes: May take 24–72 hours, especially if documents need to be verified
- For SkyMiles updates, allow up to 7 business days
To avoid delays, handle any name corrections at least a week before your flight.
Tips to Avoid Name Errors When Booking
- Always book tickets exactly as your name appears on your ID or passport
- Review booking details immediately after purchase
- If someone else books for you, double-check what they enter
- Keep a scanned copy of your ID handy in case you need to submit proof
Conclusion: How to Change Your Name on Delta Airlines
If you’ve been asking How to Change Your Name on Delta Airlines, the good news is: Delta offers several options for both minor and legal name changes. Whether online, over the phone, or in person, you can resolve most issues fairly easily—especially if you act early and have the correct documents ready.
The key points to remember:
- Minor corrections can often be made online for free.
- Major name changes require documentation and may involve fees.
- Always verify your name matches your ID to avoid boarding issues.
- SkyMiles members should update their profile separately.
By following the right steps, you can ensure your trip goes smoothly without any last-minute surprises at the airport.
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