For > Passports
UPDATED: March 2008
Recent changes in passport regulations have led to an unprecedented volume of applications, causing delays and backlogs at the National Passport Agencies.
We have been working diligently to help constituents track the status of and expedite service for
their passports. If you would like our assistance, please read the information below, and, if applicable, fill out
the form below as completely as possible.
Information on Passport Requirements:
To check whether you require a passport to travel, visit the Department of State's informational page here.
To make sure you have correct documentation required to enter a foreign country, visit the Department of State's consular information here. For example, although you do not need a passport to travel to Mexico, you do require other specific documents to securely cross the border.
In short:
- Passports are required when flying into or out of the United States.
- Passports are not required for all cruises — check with your cruise ship for their requirements.
- Passports are not required when crossing the Mexican or Canadian Borders on foot, by car, bus, etc.
HOWEVER, the next phase of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) will require passports for everyone traveling into or out of the US by any means (land, sea or air). The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) intends to implement this next phase of WHTI on June 1, 2009.
IN THE MEANTIME, starting the end of January 2008, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will require that all adult travelers present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, and proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, when entering the US through land or sea ports of entry. Minor children (under 18) will need to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.
(In the past, travelers across our land borders were allowed to make an oral declaration as to their citizenship. By discontinuing this practice and requiring everyone to present documentary proof of citizenship, the traveling public will begin to transition to the future WHTI requirements.)
If you are within 2 days until departure:
You may need to go to a passport agency and get your passport in person. The three nearest passport processing facilities are in Aurora, Colorado; Houston, Texas; and Chicago, Illinois. Our office would advise constituents to avoid the agency in Houston, as they are experiencing especially long delays. It is highly recommended to make an appointment at an agency before going to get a passport. To obtain addresses and instructions on how to schedule an appointment, click here.
If you go to a passport agency, you will be starting the application process over. As such, please make sure you have a certified birth certificate, 2x2 photos and new application. Complete instructions and documentation requirements can be found here.
If you are outside of 14 days until departure:
The National Passport Agencies will not allow congressional offices to intervene on a constituent's behalf until 14 days until the departure date. If you are outside this 14-day window, please submit your information later.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact my offices at the numbers on the bottom of this
website.