H1B 2005 October 1.

I just got H1B approved for 2005 October. I have two questions:

1. My passport will be expired in 2006 May. Should I renew my passport before I apply for H1 visa ? (I am in Canada now).

2. My H1B will be effective from October 1. When can I apply for H1B visa? I want to apply for it as soon as possible.

Many thanks for your advice.