Passport tips every traveler needs to know

Tips for getting a passport

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For anyone traveling out of the country this year, a passport is required for travel. Whether it's a trip to Europe, a cruise in the Bahamas, Mexican vacation, or a weekend in Canada, most travelers know that a passport is now required. Whether you are applying for a passport for the first time, need to renew your passport, or travel internationally often, here are a few tips for passports:

All citizens must have a passport, regardless of age - If you are 1 day old or 100 years old, every citizen is required to have a passport if traveling out of the country.

Proof of citizenship, valid ID, and 2 passport photos must be provided to get a passport - For an adult, this can be a birth certificate and driver's license. Other forms of citizenship can include a certificate of citizenship, a Naturalization certificate, or other records as specified. ID can include military ID, Government ID, previous undamaged passport, or Naturalization certificate. For anyone under 16, proof of citizenship, both parents present, parents' ID (both parents), and evidence of the relationship to the parents are required. Check here for passport photo guidelines.

Getting a passport can take as long as 4 to 6 weeks after you apply - If you are requesting a new passport, make sure you allow enough time for your application to be processed so that you receive it before your trip. If you need it quickly, you can apply for expedited service which can take 2 to 3 weeks and costs an additional $60 plus overnight delivery costs (Get your passport in a hurry). If you need one in less than two weeks, make an appointment with a Regional Passport Agency.

You can renew your passport by mail - If your first passport was issued after age 16, was issued in the last 15 years, is undamaged and can be submitted with your application, and was issued with your current name or you have legal documents for a name change, then you can renew by mail. Form DS-82 is required and the cost for renewal is $110 for adults and $80 for kids (Passport renewal).

You can change your name on your passport for free - For those who have had a legal name change due to marriage or a court order and your passport was issued less than a year ago, you can get a new one for free. If older than a year, renewal fees apply. (Passport Name Change)

A Passport, Passport card, WHTI Compliant Travel Document, or US birth certificate (for children under 16) must be used when traveling to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, or the Caribbean region - A passport is not required for these countries but one of the other three documents are required. A WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative) document includes such things as Traveler Cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST), State Issued Enhanced Driver's License, Enhanced Tribal Cards, U.S. Military ID with Military Travel Orders, US Merchant Mariner Document on business, Native American Tribal Photo ID Card, Form I-872 American Indian Card.

How to get a US Passport Card - Passport cards are for travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda land crossings and are not valid for international air travel. You must apply for a US Passport Card using form DS-82 or DS-11. Passport Cards for those over 16 last 10 years, cost $55 for first-time applicants, and are $30 for renewals. For those under 15, they are valid for 5 years and cost $40. (US Passport Card)

Check your passport expiration and pages before you leave - If your passport will expire within 6 months or you don't have enough blank pages in your passport, you can be denied boarding for your flight. (Getting new pages)

Some countries do not accept US passports - Traveling to countries like Russia and China requires a visa. Terms to entering and exiting certain countries are very specific and you must apply in advance of your trip. For visa applications, you may need to apply through that country's embassy or consulate. Check Country Specific Information and Travel Warnings for visiting requirements and to get the most recent US warnings on travel.

Contact the US Embassy or Consulate if you lose your passport while traveling - Check your travel destination to see where they are located (www.usembassy.gov/)

While not specifically related to passports, here is some helpful information before traveling outside of the country.

Along with your passport, make sure you receive the proper immunizations and health treatment - Each country is different and there are a number of health concerns when you travel. Check with the CDC to find out what you should know about your health before you travel.

Register your travel plans with the State Department - In case of a family emergency, the US State Department will be able to contact you. This is a free online service and your information will not be disclosed to anyone without your permission - travelregistration.state.gov/

Check your medical insurance and other travel insurance options - In case of an accident, find out what your insurance will cover when you travel. If your coverage isn't enough, you can always purchase optional travel and health insurance to cover you on your trip.

Seeing the world, whether for business or pleasure, is a fantastic travel experience and one you will never forget. International travel takes a lot of planning but can be a wonderful experience for you, your friends, and family. Just make sure you plan ahead and have all the documents and information you need before you go. Bon voyage!

For more information on passports, check the U.S. State Department Passport information page. For those outside of the US, check your country's guidelines for specific passport and travel information.

To apply for a passport in Sacramento, you can get a listing of the Post Offices in your area where you can apply (Where to apply for a passport)

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