Name change / travelling at end of month

COnoviaSarah

I know we've talked a lot about name changes, but I wasn't in any sort of hurry until recently.  I've decided to go visit my family at the end of the month and when I went online to buy plane tickets, I got stumped at what to put for my name.  I haven't changed my name yet, we're waiting to get our certified marriage license back (they said it would be completed today or tomorrow when I asked on Monday).  Then, I'll need to go to the social security office and then the DMV.  Colorado gives you a piece of paper to use as your license and mails you the card within 30 days.  

 

Since I'm on teacher summer now, I want to do it as soon as I get the license.  I go back to work shortly after I return from teh trip, so I don't want to wait.  I have the time now.  In theory, it should be fine, but I'm nervous!  What do you think?

elpa336

I would contact all those that might need to see your license while on your trip to make sure that a paper one will suffice.  I know after H switched his license over from Louisiana to Texas awhile back, he was grounded and wasn't able to travel to Tulsa for work.  So make sure you'll be good to travel and if so then go ahead.

MissySue20

Like elpa said, I would just make some phone calls. Maybe you can carry your marriage license with you to show that you just got married and everything in case there are issues.

whitneykaye87

Yeah, I agree about phone calls.  I'm not sure how picky airports would be about needing a 'real' id with your name on it, but I imagine it'd work out, especially if you have your marriage certificate.  If you're on the fence about it or can't get an answer, just use your maiden name for one more trip.

 FWIW, the social security office and DMV were super easy and quick for me, so if you have to wait it shouldn't be a huge hassle when you get home before you start up again.

msmoore80

You also might want to get a photo ID while you wait on your license. That way you could use that at the airport. Or if you have passport I think that might work too. I just feel like airports are super picky and will want something with a photo on it.

zora51

Does your state allow you to keep your old license (but punch a hole in it)? Because having the new paper one, and the old punched one is fine at most airports if the tickets are in your maiden name (I flew around a bit like that). But if your state takes your old license, but good luck flying with a piece of paper for ID! (Just sayin') If you put the tickets in your married name, then I'd def check wtih the airports and ask what form of IDs they want since a piece of paper DL may not be very valid for ID in an airport. Good luck!

COnoviaSarah

I called Frontier today and also looked around on the TSA website.  I bought the tickets in my maiden as the airline rep. suggested.  I do get to keep my old license (I think) but with a hole punched in it.  She said the piece of paper plus our marriage license will be fine if it does change before I travel.  Just in case, I'm not going to send in my passport for a name change until after I travel, that way I can use that if needed.  Thanks for helping me think it through!