Changing the name on an event ticket is often desirable but not always possible. There are a few key factors that determine whether you can change the name printed on a ticket.
Venue and event policies
The most important consideration is the official policy of the venue or event. Many major concerts, sports games, and other popular events have strict no-name-change policies printed on the ticket itself. This is done to prevent scalping and black market resales. Before attempting any kind of name edit, always check the fine print on your ticket and the website of the venue or event. If there is a no transfer or no name change policy in place, you are out of luck.
Type of ticket
If the event you have tickets for does allow name changes, the next factor is the type of ticket you have. There are generally three categories of tickets:
- Paper tickets – These have the name printed directly on the ticket stock. No way to change it.
- E-tickets – Digital tickets that require the purchaser’s name, photo ID, and payment card to be verified at the entrance. No name changes allowed.
- Generic e-tickets – Digital tickets that are fully transferrable without any identity verification. The name can be changed on these.
So unless you have the third type of generic e-tickets, a name change is probably not possible even if the event allows it.
Timing of the name change request
Assuming the event permits name changes and you have transferable e-tickets, the next consideration is when you request the change. Most venues will only allow name edits up to a certain deadline before the event starts. This cutoff timing ranges from weeks in advance for very popular concerts to 24 hours for some sporting events. If you try to change the name too close to show time, you will be denied even if the tickets are theoretically transferrable.
Fees for name changes
Finally, be prepared to pay fees if you do successfully change the name. Many ticket sellers charge per-ticket service fees for name edits. These typically range from $5-$15 per ticket changed. There may also be shipping fees if new hard stock tickets need to be issued and mailed. And sometimes you only get one free name change and have to pay more for any subsequent requests. Know the costs ahead of time so there are no surprises.
How to request a name change on transferrable tickets
If you’ve determined your event tickets can have names changed, here is the process to request it:
- Log in to your ticket account online or call the vendor.
- Find the name change option and submit a request.
- Enter the new name that should appear on each ticket.
- Provide payment info for any name change fees.
- Confirm your identity if required.
- Receive your edited ticket by email or mail.
It may take several days to over a week to receive your new tickets with the name change so request it early. And not all vendors allow online changes, so you may have to call if the option is not clearly visible in your account.
Can you change the name at the venue?
In general, no. Most venues will only honor the name printed on the ticket at the entrance. Some may allow name changes on the spot for an additional fee, but don’t count on it. Any name change needs to be done well in advance through the official ticketing process online or by phone.
Summary of key points
- Check event policies first – name changes are often prohibited.
- E-tickets offer the only possibility for edits.
- Request changes before posted deadlines.
- Be ready to pay name change fees.
- Follow the ticket seller’s official process.
- On-site name changes are rarely an option.
Conclusion
While changing the name on event tickets is convenient, it is rarely possible these days unless you have fully transferrable e-tickets. Don’t expect to alter paper tickets or passes requiring ID verification. Know the change deadlines and fees in advance as well. With preparation and timing, you can hopefully update names on eligible tickets smoothly.
Ticket Type | Allows Name Changes? |
---|---|
Paper Ticket | No |
E-Ticket Requiring ID | No |
Generic E-Ticket | Yes |
When can I request a name change?
The deadline to request a name change varies by event and venue. Some common timeframes include:
- Concerts – Up to 1 week before the event
- Sporting events – Up to 24-48 hours before the event
- Theater shows – Up to 72 hours before the event
- Festivals – No changes within 30 days of the event
Check the specific policy for your tickets. Request changes as early as possible, once you have the new attendee’s full name.
What are typical fees for changing a name?
Expect to pay per-ticket fees in the range of:
- $5-$15 for online name changes
- $15-$30 for phone assisted changes
- $5-$20 for reissued paper tickets
There may also be shipping charges for new printed tickets. Most events allow at least one free change, then charge for any subsequent revisions.
How do I request a name change by phone?
If the ticketing company or venue allows phone-assisted name changes, follow these steps:
- Call the customer service number on your ticket or order confirmation.
- Provide the original order number and purchaser details.
- Inform the agent you need to change the name on specific tickets.
- Give the new first and last name to use.
- Provide payment info for the name change fee.
- Confirm your identity if required.
- Note the timeframe for receiving your updated tickets.
Be ready with all order details, new names, and payment. Allow plenty of time for processing and mail delivery of any reissued tickets.
Can I change part of a name, like the spelling?
Most ticket sellers require that any name change consist of both a new first and last name. However, some may allow you to alter the spelling of the existing name if needed to correct a typo or error. Contact the vendor to see if they can update just part of the existing name printed on a ticket.
Minor spelling errors like “Jon” instead of “John” may be accepted. But changing only the first or last name is generally not possible – you need to provide a fully new name. For any partial update, be prepared to show ID matching the original incorrect name when you arrive.
Extra tips for changing ticket names
Check if any initials can be used
Using a recipient’s initials along with their last name is sometimes accepted, like “J. Smith” instead of “John Smith.” This allows some flexibility if the new attendee’s first name is unknown.
Change names early to avoid issues
Request name changes as early as allowed. Last minute edits close to the event date can get denied or delayed past the cutoff policy.
Know the ticket transfer limits
Many tickets can only be transferred once, or once for free then paid after that. Check policies so you don’t request a change that exceeds the limit.
Confirm the new attendee’s full name
When passing tickets to someone else, get their complete formal first and last name. Nicknames or initials may not be accepted.
Save the transfer confirmation
When you receive confirmation of a successful ticket name change, save that email or record. It can act as proof the switch is complete.
Can I change the name after selling tickets?
If you sell your tickets through an online resale platform, the name change process differs. Follow these guidelines:
- List tickets under accurate original buyer name.
- Once sold, mark tickets as transferred in your account.
- The buyer must change name through the ticket company.
- Provide buyer’s order details to help them change.
As the seller, you simply need to officially transfer the tickets to the buyer in your account. The buyer must then request any name changes through the standard process.
Troubleshooting name changes
What if tickets already say TBD or similar?
If your tickets are will call or printed generically as “TBD” or “To Be Determined”, treat it like any other change. Submit the specific first and last names to replace the placeholder.
What about last minute emergencies?
For true emergencies like illness that prevent your ticket use within 24 hours of an event, contact the venue box office immediately. They may issue replacements on a case-by-case basis.
How can I change pet names printed on “yappy hour” tickets?
For minor league or college baseball events with “yappy hour” dog ticket promotions, email the team ticketing office a request to change the dog’s name. Have your order number, section, and seats along with new pup name ready.
What about group tickets with one buyer name?
For group tickets bought under one person’s name, have the original purchaser submit names for the whole party at once. Most limit groups to 1-2 name revisions so plan carefully.
Warnings about name changes
- Never buy tickets with an already changed name – it could be a scam.
- Don’t send name change fees to a third party – go directly through the venue.
- Never share your ticket account login or password to allow someone else to change names.
- Triple check new names – errors cannot be fixed at the event entrance.
Follow official change procedures and watch for name edit red flags to avoid problems and ensure your whole party gets in the venue.