The short answer is – it depends. When purchasing tickets on Ticketmaster, you have the option to put the ticket under any name you want. However, whether the name on the ticket ultimately matters comes down to the event policy and the ticket type.
Event policies on name changes
For many events booked through Ticketmaster, the name on the ticket does not matter at all. You can show up with a different name on your ticket and still be granted entry. This is common for concerts, festivals, and other casual events where seat assignments are not a major factor.
However, for reserved seating events like sports games, theaters shows, etc., the name on the ticket often does matter. Many of these venues have policies requiring IDs to match the ticket name to prevent unauthorized resale and scalping. There may be fees associated with changing the name after purchase as well.
Before finalizing your Ticketmaster order, check the event policies closely to understand the name change rules. This information is usually available during checkout or on the venue’s website. If the policy is unclear, you can contact the box office directly to find out if names can be changed on those tickets.
Transferable vs. non-transferable tickets
Another factor that determines whether the ticket name matters is the transferability of the tickets. Ticketmaster differentiates between transferable tickets, which can be freely given or sold to others, and non-transferable tickets tied to the original purchaser.
Transferable tickets essentially work like physical tickets – anyone bearing the ticket can gain entry regardless of the name printed. The name doesn’t matter as long as the ticket is valid. These transferable “hard” tickets will clearly state they can be transferred or resold.
Non-transferable “paperless” tickets are restricted to only allow entry for the original ticket purchaser. The name matters in this case because you will have to show ID matching the ticket name to get into the event with paperless tickets. Sometimes there are exceptions for children or groups allowed with the original purchaser.
Will call and mobile entry
For will call tickets that must be picked up in person, or mobile entry tickets on your smartphone, the name also matters. Will call tickets are typically left under the purchaser’s name and require an ID match for pickup. Mobile entry tickets are tied to the purchaser’s account and also require ID to gain entry.
The key is – if any sort of identification or account verification is required to obtain or redeem the tickets, then the name on the ticket definitely matters. Change name capabilities may be limited with these ticket delivery methods as well.
If you need to change the name after purchase
Depending on the event policies and ticket type, you may or may not be able to change the name after the Ticketmaster purchase. Here are some tips if you need to modify the ticket name:
- Log into your Ticketmaster account and look for a “Manage my tickets” or “Modify tickets” option where you can edit names. There is usually a time limit to make changes.
- Contact Ticketmaster Fan Support to request a name change on your order if needed.
- For non-transferable tickets, the original purchaser must be present with ID to allow entry for anyone else using those tickets.
- If allowed, you can formally transfer tickets to someone else through Ticketmaster which updates the ticket name.
- Listed resale sites like Ticketmaster Resale offer an official way to change names when reselling tickets.
When the name doesn’t match at the venue
If you show up with tickets under a different name than your ID, here are some options to try gaining entry:
- Explain the name situation to the ticket taker – they may allow you to proceed if it’s not a strict policy.
- Ask if the venue can print a new ticket or wristband in your name that you can swap for the mismatched ticket.
- See if the box office can formally change the name on the ticket by presenting both tickets and IDs.
- The original ticket purchaser may need be required to be present to accompany you inside.
- Offer to provide additional proof that you rightfully obtained the ticket from the original buyer.
Of course, entrance is at the discretion of the venue. If it is against their policy, you may be denied entry with a ticket name mismatch. This is why it’s crucial to understand the name change rules before finalizing your order.
When you’re buying tickets for others
A common scenario where the ticket name matters is when purchasing tickets as a gift, or on behalf of a group. In these cases:
- For transferable tickets, you can safely put their names on the tickets.
- For non-transferable tickets, use your name as the original purchaser and make sure you will be attending together.
- If possible, formally transfer tickets to the recipients afterwards through Ticketmaster.
- Provide the confirmation email with their tickets so they can see the venue policies.
- Remind them to bring an ID in case names need to be verified at entry.
As the ticket buyer, make sure you understand the specifics of the tickets you are purchasing for others and set the right expectations with your group.
Pro tips for getting the names right
Here are some pro tips when purchasing Ticketmaster tickets to avoid issues with names not matching at the event:
- Carefully read the ticket details and event policies first before selecting your tickets.
- If names don’t matter, no need to stress about whose to use.
- When names do matter, enter the exact legal names of attendees.
- Triple check the spelling of names before completing checkout.
- Only use your own name if the tickets are non-transferable.
- Request transfers and name changes as early as possible.
- Add the Ticketmaster app or delivery email to your friends’ phones so they have their ticket info.
- Forward important name change or ticket transfer confirmations from Ticketmaster.
Planning ahead goes a long way towards avoiding headaches later if names end up not matching IDs at the event entrance. While every venue’s policy may vary, following these tips will help ensure your Ticketmaster tickets work smoothly no matter whose names are on them.
