Wilmington | July 2, 2010 - Summer travel season is upon us and while some of you may choose to stay local this summer and visit some of Delaware's beaches and state parks, for those of you planning on traveling internationally, I wanted to let you know about some new policies and helpful hints having to do with obtaining your U.S. Passport.  Details are below, including information about fee increases that will take effect July 13, 2010.  I encourage you to address such matters in a timely fashion in order to avoid any last minute troubles. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any additional questions or concerns.

U.S. Passport Resources

• For general information about passports and travel and to access the application for a U.S. Passport, please visit www.travel.state.gov
• Also, please check www.travel.state.gov for the most up-to-date application processing times. Currently routine applications are being processed 4-6 weeks from the time of application, and requests for expedited services, which include overnight delivery to and from the Passport Agency is approximately 2-3 weeks.
• For appointments and status inquiries please call 1-877-487-2778
• Finally, the U.S. Passport Agency's new fee schedule will go into effect on July 13, 2010. New passport fees are as follows:
  • $135 for a first-time U.S. passport book for adults (age 16 or older)
  • $110 for U.S. passport book renewal (age 16 or older)
  • $105 for a U.S. passport book for minors (under age 16)
  • $55 for a first-time U.S. passport card for adults (age 16 or older)
  • $30 for a U.S. passport card for adults (age 16 or older) who have a fully valid U.S. passport issued within the last 15 years
  • $40 for a U.S. passport card for minors (under age 16)
  • $82 for additional visa pages
  • $150 for file search and verification of U.S citizenship
  • The fee for expedited passport services will remain $60