Passport Regulations

Passport regulations have been changing in the United States for the last couple of years. The U.S. has been changing passport laws to increase border security under the plan known as the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.

Currently, all travelers leaving the country to go anywhere but U.S. territories, like Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, must have a passport if traveling by plane. This change went into effect in 2007.  Previously, passport regulations did not require that travelers to Mexico or Canada have passports. Generally, a photo ID was sufficient.

New passport regulations also are affecting people who travel out of country by land or sea. Starting June 1, 2009, all travelers will have to present a passport at international border crossings. Before June 1, travelers to Mexico and Canada will only be required to show an acceptable identification (such as a driver's license or military identification).

Obtaining a passport can be a lengthy process. You must apply for a passport for the first time in person at an Acceptance Facility or a Passport Agency. Several documents must be presented, including an original birth certificate, a driver's license (or government ID), and two passport photos, which have their own complex requirements. Finally, a fee is required. Once an application is processed, it can take at least four to six weeks to actually receive the passport in the mail.

Because of the complex nature of passport regulations, it is recommended that a passport be kept current and available should the need to travel abroad surface.