I’m thinking of traveling for about two weeks next October.  My passport expires March 4, 2010.  Will it be valid for the return trip on October 10, 2009?  Thank you!

-Anne, Shelbyville, Ky.

In general, you are supposed to have a full six months remaining before the expiration date on your passport. Some countries are stricter than others when it comes to enforcing this rule, but it's best not to chance it. If it all possible, get your passport renewed before you depart.

And if you need your passport sent to you in a rush, there are a number of services which, for an extra fee, will expedite the process. Here are a few examples that could work for you:

It's Easy Passport: toll-free, 866-487-3279,

http://www.itseasypassport.com

Passport Plus: toll-free, 800-367-1818, http://www.passportplus.net

Passports and Visas: toll-free, 800-860-8610,

http://www.passportsandvisas.com

Passport Express: toll-free, 800-362-8196,

http://www.passportexpress.com

Zierer Visa Services: toll-free, 866-788-1100, http://www.zvs.com