Is a name change required in a passport that does not expire for several years?

by Anthony
(Bothell, Washington, USA)

Question: My wife has a passport but in her maiden name does she have to change name on passport even if it does not expire till 2017?

My wife and I were married 2 months ago and are planning on going to Canada soon I have an Enhanced Drivers license from Washington, she just has her passport. If she carries her old license and new license will that work for proof with old passport?

Also, my passport expired in 2000. Can I send in for renewal and use renewal form or new passport?

Answer: Yes, your wife should apply for a passport name change. U.S. citizens should only travel with a passport that has current legal name in it. Since here passports was issued more than a year ago, she needs to apply for a renewal. Click below for details.

Passport Name Change

As long as the passport you received in 2000 is not damaged and can be submitted with your application and as long as you were not 15 or younger when it was issued, then you can apply for a passport renewal by mail.

Passport Renewal Requirements

Note, passport cards are acceptable for land and sea travel to Canada. The fee is only $30 for adults compared to $110 for the passport book.