02/24/2016
It can be tricky to know the difference between passport books, passport cards and other types of identification and when each type of ID is needed when traveling. And with new laws requiring IDs to be REAL ID-compliant combined with rumors of a "passport crisis," it can all get very confusing. Here's what you need to know .
First, REAL ID-compliance is a standard approved by Congress in 2015 to make the issuing and use of driver’s licenses and other state-issued ID cards more secure and less prone to fraud. It’s a state-level issue that affects travelers flying domestically, and the first big deadline for states to meet is January 22, 2018.
The looming passport crisis is not as scary as it sounds, but it could affect international travelers in a big way. The crisis refers to an influx of passport renewals expected to happen in 2017 that will slow down processing times. The U.S. State Department is currently recommending travelers with soon-to-be-expired passports to renew as soon as possible in order to avoid any delays.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO APPLY FOR OR RENEW A PASSPORT?
The routine processing time for new passports or renewals is estimated at 4 to 6 weeks, but can be expedited to 3 weeks for an additional fee. The processing time may also vary based on demand. Peak season, which can slow down processing times, is from January to August. Off-peak season is from September to December. If your clients can wait until off-peak season to apply for or renew a passport, recommend that they do so.
HOW MUCH DOES A PASSPORT COST?
The cost of a new passport for an adult is $135. The cost of a renewal of an adult passport is $110. A passport for a minor (anyone under the age of 16) costs $105. This page has helpful information on all the fees associated with passports.
Passport cards, which are different than a passport, are less expensive but can only be used for international trips by land and sea – they are not valid for international air travel. To learn more about passport cards, visit the Department of State’s passport card page.