Due to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) the Department of State has received an unexpectedly large number of passport applications in the past months. Although they are working diligently to process applications, the new time-tables have many people concerned. I understand that with impending travel plans, this can be a stressful wait. However, please be assured that my office will be happy to assist you in this trying time.

A few helpful tips:

• Apply early. Routine service processing time is currently 10-12 weeks. Expedited processing time is 2-3 weeks. Please keep this in mind when planning your trip.
• Try to relax. We understand that you have invested a lot of time and money into your travel plans.
• Contact us if your passport has not arrived within three weeks of your departure. At this time we will be happy to take your information and look into your passport status.
• Have the following information ready when contacting our office:

Name of Applicant:
Date of Birth:
Locator #:(If you do not know your locator number, you will need to provide your complete social number.)
Last 4 digits of your Social Security Number:
Address:
Phone #:

• If you are a U.S. citizen with a pending application who intends to enter and depart from the U.S. by air to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda through September 30, 2007 please note that travel requirements have been granted temporary flexibility.

Adults who have applied for but not yet received a passport should present government-issued photo identification and an official proof of application from the U.S. Department of State.  Children under the age of 16 traveling with their parents or legal guardian will be permitted to travel with the child's proof of application.

Please call my office if you need assistance in obtaining these documents or to see if you fall under these qualifications.