Fee to Update the Passenger Name on Delta Air Lines
Fixing a name on a flight ticket may feel tricky—but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s everything you need to know about whether Delta charges a fee to update a passenger name, and how to handle it smoothly.
Understanding the Difference: Minor Correction vs Full Transfer
- Minor Name Correction: Fixing small errors such as typos, swapped first and middle names, or adding/removing a middle initial. These changes don’t alter the identity.
- Full Name Transfer: Assigning the ticket to a completely different person. This is not permitted under Delta’s policy and cannot be done without booking a new ticket.
Delta permits minor corrections but does not allow full transfers to a different passenger.
When Corrections Are Typically Free
Timing is key:
If you correct the name within 24 hours of booking and the flight is more than seven days away, Delta usually allows the correction for free—even on basic fares.
For most fare classes beyond Basic Economy, minor spelling fixes made early (several days before travel) often carry no fee. Delta will treat these adjustments as part of normal booking maintenance.
When You May Face a Fee
Correction close to departure:
- If you update your ticket name within 72 hours of travel, Delta may charge a small service fee, especially depending on the fare class.
- Basic Economy tickets are the most restrictive. Minor corrections made too late may not be permitted and may require a new booking at full fare.
Rebooking or fare change:
- If the correction requires a ticket reissue, a fare difference may apply.
- Flyers who change legal names (such as after marriage) may need to reissue their ticket, resulting in a processing fee or fare adjustment.
Name Update Rules by Fare Class
- Basic Economy: Very limited or no corrections allowed. If correction is permitted, it often requires fees or rebooking.
- Standard Economy and Comfort Plus: Minor corrections allowed, usually with no fees if made early.
- Delta One or Premium Cabin fares: Strong flexibility; minor corrections are often free even close to departure.
Legal Name Changes
If your legal name has changed—due to marriage, court order, or other official reasons—Delta allows you to update the name with proper documentation, such as:
- Marriage certificate
- Court order or divorce decree
- Updated passport or photo ID
A ticket reissue may still be required. You may pay a small administrative fee, and if the fare changes when updating the ticket, Delta may require payment of the difference.
How to Update Your Name
- Log into Delta.com or use the Delta mobile app to access Manage Trips.
- Enter the confirmation number and surname.
- If a simple correction is allowed, follow online prompts to update the name.
- If the option is unavailable, call Delta reservations with your booking details.
- Provide documents if it’s a legal name change.
- Confirm your updated boarding pass and make sure everything now matches your ID.
Bright-Line Scenarios: Who Pays What
| Scenario | Allowed? | Fee Expected? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typo in first or last name | Yes | Usually no fee | If corrected early |
| Legal name change | Yes | Processing Fee | Documentation required |
| Transfer ticket to other person | No | Not allowed | Must cancel and rebook |
| Basic Economy ticking with typo | Limited | Possibly yes | Restrictions stricter on this fare class |
Third-Party Bookings
If you booked through a travel agent or online travel site, you must request corrections through that provider. Delta cannot change the name directly on third-party issued tickets. Providers may have their own policies and service charges.
Airport or Same-Day Changes
If you only spot the error at the airport:
- Approach the Delta desk immediately.
- Agents may allow same-day corrections for minor issues—but there could be higher fees or delays.
- If correction isn’t possible, boarding may be denied.
Why Transfers Are Not Allowed
Delta sells tickets tied to an individual’s identity. Allowing full-name transfers would conflict with TSA rules, frequent flyer tracking, and loyalty program integrity. For security and refund reasons, Delta maintains that all new passengers must book under their own name.
Tips for Smooth Correction
- Always book using the exact name shown on ID or passport.
- Avoid nicknames or initials that don’t match legal documents.
- Review your ticket as soon as you receive it.
- Correct errors as soon as you notice them—early action reduces costs.
- Save confirmation emails after correction.
- If in doubt, call Delta customer service early rather than risking issues at the airport.
Real-World Examples
- “Jorn Doe” typed instead of “John Doe” by mistake. Correction done online within hours. No fee charged.
- “Anna Marie” needs to swap order to match passport. Adjusted online two days before flight. No modification fee.
- Married passenger name changed from “Smith” to “Johnson.” Provided marriage certificate. Ticket reissued with small processing fee.
- Basic economy ticket with typo discovered late. Delta denied correction. Passenger had to rebook at full price.
Final Takeaway
Delta Air Lines does allow minor name corrections, especially when made early. Fees are usually minimal or waived entirely for small mistakes, except on ultra restrictive Basic Economy fares. Full ticket transfers to someone else are not permitted—each passenger must appear under their own identity. Legal name changes are allowed with documentation, though fees may apply. The key: act early, document properly, and confirm your updated itinerary before travel.
If you need help checking whether your ticket qualifies for a free correction or estimating a possible fee, I’m happy to assist.