For international travel, U.S. citizens must have a valid passport. Below is everything you need to know about obtaining a passport.
Who Needs a Passport? Any U.S. citizen traveling outside the United States by air, land, or sea will need a valid passport. Some exceptions apply for closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to the same U.S. port), where a birth certificate and government-issued ID may be accepted.
Where to Apply for a Passport You can apply for a U.S. passport at:
Local Passport Acceptance Facilities (such as post offices, clerks of court, and public libraries)
U.S. Department of State Passport Agencies (for urgent travel needs)
Some online services allow for renewal applications
Visit the official U.S. Department of State website to locate the nearest application center.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport?
Routine Processing: Typically 6-8 weeks
Expedited Processing: Around 2-3 weeks (for an additional fee)
Urgent Travel (Within 14 Days): Appointments are required at a passport agency
How Much Does a Passport Cost?
Adult Passport Book (First-Time Application): $165
Adult Passport Renewal: $130
Child Passport (Under 16): $135
Expedited Service: Additional $60
Passport Card (For Land & Sea Travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean): $65 for adults, $50 for children
Passport Card vs. Passport Book A passport card is a wallet-sized alternative to the traditional passport book but has limited use. It is valid for:
Land and sea travel to and from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean
NOT valid for international air travel
If you are traveling by car or cruise ship to these destinations, a passport card may be a cost-effective alternative. However, if you plan to fly internationally, you must have a passport book.
Where to Apply For official information, forms, and updates, visit the U.S. Department of State website by clicking the button below.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your travel plans, feel free to reach out!
Safe travels!
Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers will need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. Below is everything you need to know about this requirement.
What is Real ID? The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to enhance security standards for state-issued identification. A Real ID-compliant card is marked with a gold star in the upper corner and meets federal security standards.
Who Needs a Real ID? Any U.S. citizen planning to fly domestically or enter secure federal facilities (such as military bases or federal buildings) will need a Real ID-compliant card, a valid U.S. passport, or another TSA-approved form of identification.
When Will Real ID Be Required? The enforcement deadline is May 7, 2025. After this date, standard driver’s licenses that are not Real ID-compliant will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel or federal facility access.
How to Get a Real ID Obtaining a Real ID is a straightforward process, but it must be done in person at your state’s DMV or equivalent agency. You will need to bring:
Proof of identity (e.g., valid passport or birth certificate)
Proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card or W-2 form)
Two proofs of state residency (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)
Where to Apply Visit your state’s DMV website for specific requirements and to schedule an appointment. For more information and official updates, click the button below.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your travel plans, feel free to reach out!
Safe travels!
As of 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, will be required to obtain an ETIAS authorization before visiting most European countries. Below is everything you need to know about this new requirement.
What is ETIAS? ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization system implemented by the European Union to enhance security and streamline travel for visitors. It is not a visa but rather a pre-screening requirement for travelers entering the Schengen Zone.
Who Needs ETIAS? Travelers from visa-exempt countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, will need to apply for ETIAS before traveling to Europe. If you already require a visa to enter the Schengen Zone, ETIAS does not apply to you.
When Will ETIAS Be Implemented? ETIAS is set to take effect in 2025. While the exact start date may be subject to change, travelers should be prepared to comply with the requirement before booking European travel.
How to Apply for ETIAS Applying for ETIAS will be a quick and simple online process, taking approximately 10 minutes to complete. Travelers will need to provide basic personal information, travel details, and answer security-related questions. The application fee is expected to be around €7, and most approvals will be granted within minutes, though some may take up to 96 hours if additional review is needed.
Validity of ETIAS Authorization Once approved, ETIAS authorization will be valid for three years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows for multiple short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in Schengen countries.
Where to Apply Click the button below to apply for ETIAS or check for official updates.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your European travel plans, feel free to reach out!
Safe travels friends!