Can I travel overseas if my drivers license name and passport name don't match?

by Dawn
(Dallas, TX)

Question: I will be traveling to Europe in April and I recently realized that my drivers license has my married (but now ex) name on it, and my passport has my maiden (current name) on it. Will I be able to travel overseas if the names don't match exactly?

Answer: It depends. As long as the name on your passport and ticket match, there should be no problem. The only document you have to present when passing through customs is a valid passport.

Some countries require you to have at least six month's validity in your passport before they will grant you permission to enter. So, check you passport's expiration date.

The only problem might arise if you plan on renting a car while in Europe. Most car rental companies require you present your normal driver's license and passport.

Since your trip isn't until April, you might consider changing the name in your driver's license. The fee is only $10 for residents of Texas.