- 1). Carry backup forms of ID whenever you're out. Consider how critical having an ID will be in the place where you're going. For example, if you're heading to the movies, you can probably get away with showing only a student ID if your other ID is rejected. At an airport ticket counter, however, you may need to also present a passport or state-issued ID card. It's always best to call ahead to find out the security requirements.
- 2). Call ahead of time if you know an ID will be required by the business/agency/bureau. For example, if you have an airline ticket with your name misspelled, contact the airline's customer service department. In most cases, tickets aren't transferable for security reasons, but some airlines may be willing to work with you, depending on the circumstances. Point out that your name is misspelled on your ticket and ask the airline to make note of the typo in your passenger name record (PNR). That way, you should be able to make it past security and onto the plane without incident.
- 3). Produce documentation indicating that you're in the midst of changing your name. For example, if you're going through a divorce or getting married, supplying older forms of ID -- a driver's license or passport, for example -- should be sufficient to establish your identity.