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The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 61.25

Change of name

Read the official rule

If your legal name changes and you need to update your pilot certificate to reflect it, you must submit your current airman certificate along with documentation proving the name change. Acceptable documentation includes a marriage license, court order, or similar official document that verifies your new name.

The FAA will inspect your documents and return them to you—they don't keep your original marriage license or court order. This process ensures your pilot certificate matches your current legal identification, which is important when you need to present your certificate alongside a government-issued photo ID during flight operations, checkrides, or when dealing with aviation authorities. Without matching names on your documents, you may face complications during certificate verification or enforcement actions.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 20, 2026.