Recently divorced and changed back to maiden name
by Stephanie
(Portland, OR, USA)
Question: I still have my old driver's license and old bank debit card with my married name and my new license and bank debit card with changed name. My checkbook still has my married name on it. The bank said that doesn't matter since they go by bank account number, not name.
I'm wondering if the same goes for my passport.
My passport has my married name on it. It doesn't expire until 2017 so I'd rather not get a new one if possible. I also want to keep the stamps from past trips.
My friend and I want to take a weekend trip to Vancouver, BC, Canada (we live in the Pacific Northwest) and I'm wondering if I can provide my birth certificate and divorce papers along with my old/new licenses and passport and still be able to cross the border there and back?
Or is it necessary that I get a new passport?
What should I do?
I thank you ahead of time for your advice.
Answer: You must travel with your passport in your current legal name. If your name has been legally changed due to divorce, then you should apply for a passport name change before you travel.
Since the passport was issued more than one year ago, you need to
apply for a passport renewal using
form DS-82 and include evidence of the name change such as the official divorce decree.
You also need to submit one recent passport photo and your current passport. The passport will be returned to you along with the new one.
The application process takes 4-6 weeks for routine service. You can request that it be expedited and receive the passport in 2-3 weeks. If you need to have the name changed more quickly, then you can either visit the
Seattle Passport Agency or employ the services of a
professional passport expediter.
UPDATE:
High demand and mailing delays are impacting how long it takes to get a passport.
- Standard service is currently taking between 7 and 10 weeks.
- Expedited service is currently taking between 3 to 5 weeks.
NOTE: Processing times begin when applications are received at a passport agency or center. Requesting 1-2-day mailing service is recommended.
Need to get a passport faster?
Requesting express service at post offices and other facilities that accept application forms from U.S. citizens.
Where processing centers are located. How to schedule an appointment. What documents to take with you.
How to pick a legitimate courier service company to assist in getting your passport quickly.
Guide to help you decide if standard or fast track processing is the best option for your situation.
Learn to expedite passport renewals as quickly as the same day. Where and how to renew passport in a hurry.