Passports
Helpful Information about Passports
Fees:
• New passport for those age 16 & over -- $97, includes $30 execution fee
• New passport for those under age 16 -- $82, includes $30 execution fee
• Application to renew a passport -- $67
• Affidavit of Lost or Stolen Passport -- No charge
• Expedite fee -- $60 per application
Processing Time:
According to the State Department, the current processing time for a new U.S. Passport is approximately 10 to 12 weeks, and processing a renewal takes approximately 10 weeks. Those who pay an expedite fee should get their passport in four weeks, acccording to the State Department. However, many constituents have experienced horrific delays in obtaining a passport due to new travel rules that require passports for travel to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda and the Caribbean. You should apply early, and it is best not to book foreign travel without having a passport first.
How do I check the status of a passport application?
The State Department says you should be able to track the status of their passport application online about seven to 10 days after an application is submitted. To check the status of your application, please visit this site: www.travel.state.gov/passport/get/status/status_2567.html
How do I obtain my first passport?
To obtain a passport for the first time, you need to apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. In our area this is usually a post office or a county clerk of court. You will need two photographs, proof of U.S. citizenship (Certified Birth Certificate or Naturalization Certificate), and valid photo identification such as a driver’s license.
For minors under the age of 14, the child must appear in person. Also, all applications for children under 14 require both parents’ or legal guardians’ consent or one parent must appear to sign and submit the second parent’s NOTARIZED statement of consent authorizing passport issuance, or provide evidence of a court order granting sole custody.
Can I renew a passport by mail?
If your passport has been altered or damaged, you cannot apply by mail and must apply in person. You can renew a passport by mail if:
• Your most recent passport is available to submit and is not damaged
• You received the passport within the past 15 years
• You were over age 16 when it was issued
• You still have the same name, or can legally document your name change.
What rules apply to travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean?
If you applied for a passport prior to June 8, 2007, you may be able to travel to these countries without a passport provided you have a government-issued photo ID and proof of a pending passport application. Some countries also may require you to have a certified birth certificate in addition to proof of a pending passport application. It is highly recommended that you obtain one before your travel. For detailed information about the new travel rules: www.travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html
How my office can help with passport problems
My district office will be happy to assist you if you are having a problem obtaining a passport. You should call my office at 440-352-3939 and be prepared to share the following information: name; DOB; Social Security Number; address; date and location of travel; date and location of passport application (i.e., local post office); home, office and cell numbers; and a locator number which can be found on the State Department web site. My office will be happy to make a congressional inquiry about the status of your application, and you should call us as early as possible.
For complete information about passports, travel warnings and tips for traveling to foreign countries: www.travel.state.gov