How to Change a Name on a Delta Ticket: Everything You Need to Know

Mistakes happen, right? You’ve booked your flight with Delta, but then you realize there’s a typo in your name, or maybe you’ve legally changed your name. Now you're stuck wondering, "How do I fix this?" Don’t worry—Delta makes it relatively simple to update your name on your ticket. Here’s how you can do it, along with everything else you need to know about Delta’s name change policy.

What is Delta’s Name Change Policy?

Before diving into how to change your name, let's first clear up Delta's rules for name changes. The good news is that Delta does allow some name corrections, but the keyword here is corrections. You can't completely transfer your ticket to someone else, but if you've made a small error or have legally changed your name, you're in the clear.

• Minor corrections (up to three characters): Spelling errors? No problem. Delta allows you to correct up to three characters in your name without too much hassle.

• Legal name changes: Got married, divorced, or legally changed your name for another reason? You can change your name on your ticket as long as you provide the necessary documents (like a marriage certificate or court order).

How Do I Change a Passenger's Name on a Delta Ticket?

If you’ve discovered an issue with the name on your Delta ticket, there are several ways to make the correction, depending on the nature of the change. Let’s walk through the various methods:

Change Name via Delta’s Website (Online Method)

Delta offers a convenient option to correct small name mistakes directly on their website. Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Go to the official Delta Airlines website and click on the ‘My Trips’ tab.

• Step 2: Enter your flight confirmation number and your last name to pull up your booking.

• Step 3: Select the flight where the name change is needed.

• Step 4: If it's a minor spelling correction (up to three characters), Delta allows you to make the changes right there on the website without any hassle.

• Step 5: Follow the prompts and confirm the change.

Note: This method is best for correcting minor typos. If it’s a legal name change, you might need to use a different method.

Change Name by Contacting Delta Customer Service (Phone Method)

For legal name changes or more significant name alterations, you’ll need to contact Delta's customer service team. This method is particularly useful for legal name changes due to marriage, divorce, or other legal reasons. Here's what to do:

• Step 1: Call Delta’s customer service at 1-800-221-1212.

• Step 2: Explain the reason for the name change (such as a legal name change or major mistake).

• Step 3: Be ready to provide your flight details, including your confirmation number, and explain the exact nature of the correction.

• Step 4: Delta may ask you to submit supporting documentation like a marriage certificate or court order. You can usually email or fax this documentation to Delta’s support team.

• Step 5: Once the documents are verified, Delta will update the name on your ticket.

Pro Tip: Be sure to contact customer service well before your flight to ensure there’s enough time to process the name change.

Change Name via the Delta Mobile App (App Method)

If you’re on the go, you can also use the Delta mobile app to correct a minor name issue. Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Open the Delta app and log in to your account.

• Step 2: Navigate to the 'My Trips' section and select the flight where the name needs correcting.

• Step 3: Look for the option to edit the passenger details. If it’s a simple spelling mistake (up to three characters), you can correct it using the app.

• Step 4: Follow the on-screen prompts to make the correction and confirm the update.

Note: Just like the website, this method works best for small corrections, not legal name changes.

Change Name at the Airport (In-Person Method)

For travelers who prefer handling things in person, you can visit a Delta ticket counter at the airport to request a name change. This method is useful for last-minute changes when you're already at the airport, but it’s best suited for minor corrections or legal name changes if you have the necessary documents with you.

• Step 1: Go to the Delta ticket counter and inform the representative that you need to correct the name on your ticket.

• Step 2: Provide your flight details and explain the correction required.

• Step 3: If it’s a legal name change, present the necessary documentation (e.g., marriage certificate).

• Step 4: The representative will process the name change on the spot if everything checks out.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that handling this at the airport could lead to delays, so it’s always better to address name changes in advance if possible.

Change Name Through Your Travel Agent (Agency Method)

If you booked your Delta flight through a travel agent, they might be able to help with the name change process. Here’s how you can proceed:

• Step 1: Contact your travel agent or the booking service you used.

• Step 2: Explain the reason for the name change and provide them with the correct information.

• Step 3: Your travel agent will reach out to Delta on your behalf and process the name correction.

Note: Fees may apply depending on the booking platform or agent’s policies.

How to Change Your Name on a Delta SkyMiles Account

It’s not just your ticket name you might need to change—sometimes your Delta SkyMiles account details need updating too. Whether you've legally changed your name or spotted a mistake, here’s how to make those updates:

• Log in to your SkyMiles account: Head over to Delta’s website and sign into your account.

• Go to your profile: Click on your name in the upper-right corner and select "Profile."

• Update your personal information: Under "Personal Details," you’ll find the option to edit your name.

• Submit any necessary documents: If this is a legal name change, Delta might ask for proof, such as a court order or marriage certificate.

• Save your changes: Double-check everything and save your updates.

Delta Name Change Policy for Domestic & International Flights

One thing to keep in mind is that Delta’s name change policy can differ slightly based on whether your flight is domestic or international. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

• Domestic flights: If you're flying within the U.S., Delta offers more flexibility for making minor changes to your name. You can correct typos directly on the website.

• International flights: For international trips, the name on your ticket must match the name on your passport exactly. If it doesn’t, you could run into problems at the airport. International name changes may require you to call Delta for help and provide additional documentation to make sure everything lines up with passport control.

What Types of Changes Are Allowed with Delta’s Legal Name Change Policy?

Not all name changes are created equal, and it’s important to know what kind of adjustments Delta allows:

• Minor spelling mistakes: If you misspelled your name or mixed up the order of your first and last name, Delta will usually let you correct it online.

• Legal name changes: If you’ve changed your name legally due to marriage, divorce, or another reason, you can update your ticket. You’ll just need to provide documents like a marriage certificate or court order to prove the name change.

What you can’t do is transfer the ticket to someone else. So, if your friend wants your seat, they’ll have to book their own ticket.

How Much Does It Cost to Change a Name on a Delta Ticket?

Ah, the big question—what’s it going to cost you? The good news is that changing a name on a Delta ticket won’t always break the bank. Here’s what to expect:

• Minor corrections (up to three characters): Delta typically doesn’t charge for small spelling corrections, especially if you catch the error early on.

• Legal name changes: For legal changes (like getting married), you can usually update your ticket without a fee, as long as you provide the required documents.

• International flights: Name changes for international flights may come with a fee, especially if you need to make more complex changes. It’s a good idea to contact Delta directly to find out what the cost will be for your specific situation.

Examples of Common Name Change Scenarios on Delta

Still a bit unsure? Let’s look at a few common scenarios that Delta deals with when it comes to name changes:

• Misspelled name: You notice a small typo in your name—Delta lets you fix up to three characters for free.

• Legal name change: You’ve gotten married and need to update your last name. Just provide a copy of your marriage certificate and Delta will handle the rest.

• Wrong name order: Did you accidentally switch your first and last name while booking? No worries, Delta will help you correct that either online or by calling their customer service.

• Maiden name on passport: If your ticket was booked under your married name but your passport still has your maiden name, you’ll need to align the ticket with your passport. This is considered a legal name change and will require supporting documents.

Final Tips for Handling Name Changes on Delta

Here are a few parting tips to make sure your name change on Delta goes smoothly:

• Check your booking ASAP: After you book your flight, double-check everything to make sure your name is correct. If you find an error, it’s best to handle it as soon as possible.

• Gather your documents: If you’re dealing with a legal name change, make sure you have the necessary paperwork ready—Delta will want to see proof.

• Call if you’re unsure: When in doubt, call Delta’s customer service for help. They can guide you through the name change process, especially for more complex situations like international travel.

Conclusion

Changing your name on a Delta ticket doesn’t have to be complicated, as long as you know the airline’s rules and procedures. Whether it’s a minor correction or a legal name change, Delta offers several ways to update your booking. Be sure to act quickly and have your documents ready if needed, and you’ll be ready for takeoff in no time.