Delta Name Change Policy: How to Correct a Ticket Name or Update Legal Name

Booking a flight with Delta Airlines is exciting, especially if it’s your first time, but remember, even a tiny mistake in your name can cause big trouble at the airport. Don’t worry, everything has a solution. Delta has clear rules that let you fix small errors or update your name when needed. If you know these rules, you can travel smoothly and avoid last-minute stress.

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Understanding Delta’s Name Correction vs. Full Name Change

When you fly with Delta Air Lines, fixing a name on your ticket is not the same as changing it. A name correction is for small fixes, like a mistake, switching first and last names, or adding a missing middle name. You can usually do this once without extra fees, as long as your ticket is Delta-operated.

But a full name change is very different. Delta doesn’t allow you to transfer your ticket to someone else. If you need a completely new name, you’ll have to cancel and book again. Extra rules apply if you’re flying to places like China or India, or with partner airlines.

An Overview of Delta Name Correction and Delta Name Change Policy

Delta airlines name correction and name change policy

Did you notice a name issue? Don’t worry, you have options. Delta Airlines has some easy guidelines for fixing small mistakes and for bigger updates. Let’s check what are these:

Delta Airlines Name Correction Policy:

Delta’s Name Correction Policy is designed to fix minor errors on a ticketed reservation to ensure the passenger’s name exactly matches the name on their government-issued ID (like a passport or driver’s license) and their TSA Secure Flight record. This policy is for correcting mistakes, not for transferring the ticket to another person.

You can usually correct small spelling mistakes, missing letters, or swapped first/last names (inverted names). This is fixing a simple error.
For changes due to marriage, divorce, or a court order, you must update both your ticket and your SkyMiles account. You’ll need to submit legal documents (like a marriage certificate).
You can often add or change your middle name in your SkyMiles profile without having to provide documents.
Your name must match the one provided to the TSA. If your SkyMiles profile doesn’t match the TSA record, you typically get a one-time chance to fix it online through your Delta profile.

Delta Name Change Policy:

Delta Air Lines does not allow tickets to be transferred from one person to another. This is considered an Invalid Name Change and is the most important rule to remember. If you need to change the traveler’s name entirely after booking, you cannot simply swap names; you’ll have to follow a specific process:

The general procedure is to cancel the original reservation and then purchase a brand new ticket for the correct person. The new ticket will be subject to current fares and availability.
Any authorized “name change” is almost always a correction of a major mistake (like a typo) or an update due to a legal name change (like marriage or divorce), not a transfer of the ticket’s ownership. Contact Delta’s Global Service Center for these specific corrections.

💡 Pro Tip: If you realize you made a mistake (a typo, or you booked the flight for the wrong person) immediately after purchasing the ticket, use the 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation rule. Cancel the ticket for a full refund, then immediately rebook with the correct name. This is faster and avoids any fees or complex correction processes.

Types of Name Change on Delta Airlines

When you book a Delta Airlines flight, your ticket must match your ID. Delta allows you to fix small errors, but you can’t give your ticket to someone else. Let’s take a look at the types of name changes on Delta Airlines tickets:

First or middle name correction: Small fixes like Jim to James are allowed.
Last name correction: You can fix up to three letters. Bigger changes need Delta’s help.
Adding to last name: Example: Smith to Smith-Anderson is okay.
Swapped names: If your first and last names are flipped, you can correct them.
Full name change: Not allowed. You’ll need to cancel and rebook.

How to Change Name on Delta Airlines Tickets?

Made a spelling slip on your Delta ticket? Don’t worry! You don’t need to panic. Here, we have steps telling how to change the name on a Delta ticket quickly and safely.

Fixing First or Middle Name:

Correct the name in the Passenger Name Record (PNR).
Add the OSI message: OSI DL NAME CORRECTION TO FIRST/MIDDLE NAME ONLY.
Reissue the ticket as an even exchange (no other changes allowed).
Waiver Code: Not required.

Correction to the Last Name:

Correct the name in the PNR.
Add the OSI message: OSI DL NAME CORRECTION TO 3 LETTERS OF LAST NAME ONLY.
Reissue the ticket as an even exchange (no other changes allowed).
Waiver Code: Not required.
Corrections are limited to a maximum of three characters.

Addition to the Last Name Without Changing the Name:

Add the second name to the last name in the PNR.
Add the OSI message: OSI DL NAME CORRECTION ADDED SECOND NAME TO LAST NAME.
Reissue the ticket as an even exchange (no other changes allowed).
Waiver Code: Not required.

First and Last Names Are Inverted on the Ticket

Correct the inversion in the PNR.
Add the OSI message: OSI DL NAME CORRECTION FIRST AND LAST NAME INVERTED.
Reissue the ticket as an even exchange (no other changes allowed).
Waiver Code: Not required.

Important: If a middle name, initial, or title is included in the name field and the first and last names are inverted, you will need to contact Delta for assistance.

How to Correct Your Name on Delta Flight Tickets via Website, App, At the Airport, and Customer Service?

how to change name on delta airlines ticket

Delta Air Lines provides specific guidelines for name corrections on tickets. Here’s a comprehensive overview of how to make name changes via various channels:

via Delta Airlines’s Official Website:

Go to Delta.com.
Click “My Trips” and log in with your confirmation number and last name.
Open the reservation for the flight you want to correct.
Look for a “Correct Name” or “Update Passenger Information” option.
Enter the correct spelling exactly as it appears on your passport or government ID.
Submit the request.
Delta may require customer service approval for verification, and your ticket might be reissued.

Via Delta Mobile App:

Open the Delta app and log in.
Go to “My Trips”.
Select the flight you want to correct.
Tap “Edit Passenger Information” or “Correct Name” (if available).
Update the spelling of your name as per your ID.
Submit and wait for confirmation.

Via Delta Airlines Customer Service:

If the website or app doesn’t allow the correction, or your situation is special (like middle/last name issues), the safest way is to call Delta directly.

Prepare your ticket number, confirmation code, and passport/ID.
Call Delta’s customer service at 1-800-221-1212 (available 24/7) or +1 (800) 508-5698 (no-wait)
- Check for local numbers here: Delta Contact
Explain the typo and provide the correct spelling.
The agent will add an OSI message to your reservation (if required) and reissue your ticket.
Confirm via email that your ticket now matches your ID exactly.

At the Airport (Delta Check-in Desk):

If your name correction wasn’t fixed before the flight, you can still try at the airport check-in counter:

Arrive early (at least 2–3 hours before departure).
Bring your ticket, passport, and any supporting documents.
Explain the typo to the Delta check-in staff.
They can make small corrections and update your reservation.
Your boarding pass will reflect the corrected name.

⚠️ Airport corrections are last-resort; it’s better to fix the name before reaching the airport to avoid delays or denied boarding.

Eligibility criteria for name corrections on Delta Air Lines (typo vs. legal change)

Take a quick look at the eligibility criteria for correcting your name:

Small mistakes like a spelling error can usually be fixed.
You can correct up to three letters in your first, middle, or last name.
Contact Delta or your travel agent to make the update.
For a legal name change (like marriage or divorce), you must show documents such as a marriage certificate or court order.
Your ticket name must match your ID for smooth travel.
Always fix mistakes early to avoid problems at the airport

Check Also: How to Get Senior Discount on Delta Airlines

Delta Airlines Name Change Rules for Domestic & International Flights

Here are some common rules to change a name on Delta Airlines tickets:

Domestic Flights

Small typos in the first, middle, or last name can be corrected.
You can change up to three letters in the last name.
Adding a missing middle name or fixing swapped names is allowed.
Only one correction per ticket is permitted.

International Flights

Same rules apply, but with extra checks.
If you’re flying to China or India, you must contact Delta directly.
If your trip involves a partner airline (like KLM, Air France, or Korean Air), only Delta can handle the correction.
Full name changes are not allowed; you must cancel and rebook.

Check Also: Book Delta Cheap Flight with Low Fare Calendar

Time Limits for Name Changes on Delta Bookings

With Delta, fixing your name is all about timing. You can’t wait until the last minute at the airport. Delta wants you to sort it out early so your ticket matches your ID. Here’s what you need to know:

Before ticketing: You can correct small errors right away without paying any Delta Airlines name change fee.
After ticketing: You get only one correction per ticket. It must be done before your flight departs.
Close to travel: Same-day name fixes may be possible, but only for minor errors like typos or swapped names.

International trips: Extra time may be needed, especially if you fly to China, India, or with partner airlines. Always contact Delta early.

SkyMiles Account Name Updates on Delta

Got a new last name after marriage or spotted a typo in your SkyMiles account? Don’t worry, fixing it is easy. Your SkyMiles profile name has to match your government ID, so Delta lets you request updates online.

Just log in to your account, go to “My Profile”, and choose “Edit Personal Details.” For small corrections, like spelling errors, you can usually update them right away.

If you’ve had a legal name change, Delta will ask you to upload documents such as a passport, marriage certificate, or court order. Once approved, your SkyMiles account will show your correct name.

Delta Name Correction on the Same Day

Did you make a tiny spelling mistake on your ticket and notice it right before your flight? Don’t panic. Delta accepts your request for a same-day name correction if it’s a small fix, like a typo or swapped letters.

You can do this by calling Delta Reservations or visiting the airport ticket counter. Bigger changes, like switching your full name, aren’t allowed this close to departure.

Just make sure the corrected name matches your ID. Simple errors are often fixed quickly, but keep in mind that the policy of Delta’s same-day name correction on tickets may still depend on ticket rules and approval.

Delta Name Correction on Group Booking

Booking flights for a big group can get tricky, and sometimes names don’t come out right. If you spot a mistake, Delta does let you request a name correction on group tickets.

Small fixes, like typos or swapped letters, can usually be corrected without trouble. For bigger errors, you’ll need to contact the Delta Group Desk or the Reservations team to get help.

Keep in mind, only the original traveler’s name can be corrected; you can’t swap people. Always double-check names when booking to avoid delays later.

Can I Change My Name on a Delta Ticket After Booking?

Yes, but only a little. Delta doesn’t allow you to switch tickets to a whole new person, but you can fix mistakes on your own booking.

If you typed your name wrong, small corrections like fixing letters or moving your middle name are usually allowed. Bigger changes, like a legal name update after marriage or divorce, need documents such as a passport, court order, or marriage certificate.

To get it fixed, you can go online to “My Trips” or call Delta Reservations. Just remember, the name on your ticket must match your ID before you fly.

Delta Name Change Fees

Minor Fixes: Small typos (like “Johns” → “John”) or reversed names usually cost a small service fee, handled by Delta agents.
How to Fix: Contact a Delta Reservations Specialist via phone or live chat. Minor corrections are much cheaper than full name changes.
Unauthorized/Invalid Changes: Delta charges $15 per segment or $50 for missing Secure Flight info—mostly for agencies, but shows Delta’s rules.
Major Name Changes: If the error is significant, you may need to cancel and rebook, treated as a new ticket.
Fare Differences: Rebooking means paying the current ticket price, which could be higher or lower than your original fare.
Non-Refundable Tickets: Original ticket value minus cancellation fees can be issued as eCredit under the original passenger’s name only.

Required Documentation for Delta Name Changes

Required documents for Delta Name Changes. Need to fix your name on a Delta ticket? Here’s what you need to know:

What You’ll Need

Proof of Name Change: A legal document like a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
SkyMiles Info: Your SkyMiles number and signature if you’re updating your account.
Ticket Details: Your 13-digit Delta ticket number (starts with 006).

How to Submit

Online: Log in to your SkyMiles account and use the Identity Verification Form.
By Mail: Send your documents to:
Delta Air Lines, Inc.
SkyMiles Account Support
Dept. 654
P.O. Box 20532
Atlanta, GA 30320-2532

How You Can Reach Delta to Fix a Name on Your Ticket?

You have a few ways to get in touch with Delta and ask them to correct your name. Pick whichever way feels easiest for you!

Call Delta Reservations

In the U.S., dial 800-221-1212 to talk to a Delta rep.
Outside the U.S.? Find the right number on Delta’s “Contact Us” page.
Be ready with your ticket (13-digit) number and any legal proof if your name change is official.

Use Online / “My Trips” Section

Log in to your Delta account.
Go to My Trips, open your booking.
If allowed, choose the “Edit name” or “Name correction” option. (Only minor spelling fixes are usually allowed here.)
Submit the change and reissue the ticket if needed.

SkyMiles / Profile Contact

If the name change is about your SkyMiles account, log in and use Delta’s Identity Verification Form online.
Upload documents (like a marriage certificate, court order, etc.).

Contact via Mail (if needed)

If Delta asks you to send physical proof, you can mail it to:

Delta Air Lines, Inc.
SkyMiles Account Support
Dept. 654
P.O. Box 20532
Atlanta, GA 30320-2532

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Delta Airlines

Booking a Delta flight should be smooth, but small slip-ups can cause big problems later. The good news is that you can avoid most issues if you’re careful. Here are the common mistakes to take care of while booking Delta Airlines:

Misspelling your name: Even one wrong letter can cause trouble. Always type it exactly as on your ID.
Forgetting middle names: If your ID has one, add it when booking to avoid confusion.
Swapping names: Don’t mix up first and last names—they need to be in the right order.
Booking for someone else: Tickets can’t be transferred, so double-check before paying.
Waiting too long: Delta allows only one correction, and it must be done before your flight.

Common Mistakes When Changing Names on Delta Tickets

Changing a name on Delta isn’t much tough, but many travelers still make avoidable errors. These little mistakes can cost you time, money, or even your seat. Here’s what you should avoid:

Fixing too late: Name corrections must be done before travel, not at the gate.
Over-correcting: Only one correction is allowed per ticket, so make it count.
Ignoring limits: You can only change up to three letters in a last name.
Mixing passengers: Tickets can’t be transferred to someone else—it’s only for the same traveler.
Skipping special rules: Flights to China, India, or with partner airlines need Delta’s help.

Conclusion

Traveling with Delta becomes easy when your ticket name matches your ID. Small typos? Missing a middle name? No problem! Delta lets you correct those. But remember, tickets can’t be passed to someone else. Follow the rules, double-check your booking, and you’ll enjoy your Delta journey without any stress.