Passport Day 2011

by William

Passport Day 2011 is scheduled for Saturday, September 17. This is the third year that the State Department has planned this event which has proven to be an enormous success each year.

While there are more than 9,400 passport application acceptance facilities and 24 regional passport agencies in the United States, operating hours of the majority of these are restricted to commercial hours on weekdays. This makes it difficult for those who work or study during these hours to submit applications for passports. Scheduling Passport Day on a Saturday provides them with this opportunity.

Regional agencies usually only attend applicants who need to expedite passports within two weeks. An appointment is normally required. However, anyone can apply at a regional agency on Passport Day. No appointment is required nor do you need to submit evidence of an imminent departure date. However, all requirements must be met and fees paid.

Requirements for first-time passports include a completed but unsigned application form DS-11, proof of identity and a copy of the ID, evidence of United States citizenship and one passport photo. Those who have had their name changed legally, should bring evidence of this. All documents submitted as supporting evidence must be either originals or certified copies.

There are special requirements for minors including the presence of both parents at the time the application is submitted. If only one parent can appear, then notarized consent from the non-applying parent must be submitted or evidence of sole legal custody.

Applicants can choose to obtain a passport book, passport card or both. Fees for adults are as follows:

Application fee (book): $110
Application fee (card): $30
Execution fee: $25

Fee for minors (age 15 or younger) are as follows:

Application fee (book): $80
Application fee (card): $15
Execution fee: $25

The expedited service fee is not required even though you might be applying at a regional agency if you only require routine processing. However, you must pay the $60 fee to expedite your passport if you need to get it quickly.

Whether you have never had a passport before or you let the expiration date on your last one slip by, Passport Day 2011 is a great opportunity to apply for a new passport and make plans to travel to popular destinations. Click the link below to find a passport office near you. Be sure to call to make sure the application acceptance facility is participating in this special event.

Find a Place to Apply on Passport Day 2011