Name in passport does not match name on social security card or driver's license

by Carolyn
(New York, NY, USA)

Question: I have been married for 32 years and for that time have used my maiden name as my middle name, as I was given no middle name at birth. The social security office, my TX driver's license and the bank all recognize my full name.

However, when I moved to New York, they would not recognize my passport as a valid ID, since it only contains my first name and my married name,Carolyn Richards. It expires in 2011. How can I make sure I get all three names on my next passport? With heightened security measures, the airports now insist that names match exactly.

Answer: If you cannot legally document your name change (through court order or marriage), you must submit the following in person at an Acceptance Facility or a Passport Agency:

- Your current, valid U.S. passport

- A completed Form DS-11, Application for a U.S. Passport

- Applicable fees

- Two recent, color photographs

- At least 3 public records showing your date and place of birth that show exclusive use of your assumed name for at least 5 years.