If you're planning to travel overseas for the holidays, time is running out to apply for a passport.
Experts say now is the time to get your papers in order.
It can take weeks to get an appointment, and processing time can take another 10 weeks.
"Travelers should plan ahead and apply for their passports early to avoid the stress and extra cost for expedited processing," the U.S. Department of State said in a statement. "With timely effort, applicants also avoid the need for last-minute appointments at regional passport agencies, which become increasingly difficult to obtain when demand is high."
Pamela Hack, of the San Francisco Passport Agency, told KGO-TV that children are most likely to see delays in getting their passports.
"They need to... have either both parents present or at least one parent present and the other parent (not) present has to have a signed notarized release," she said.
If you're planning to travel internationally for Thanksgiving, you're advised to pay the extra $60 to get an expedited passport, which takes four to six weeks to process instead of the routine seven to 10 weeks.
Those traveling for Christmas should apply immediately, but shouldn't have to expedite it.
If you have an urgent travel need -- your trip is planned within two weeks -- you can schedule an appointment at a regional passport center for rush services. You'll still have to pay the $60 expedite fee in addition to the regular application fees, and you'll need to bring printed proof of international travel, such as hotel reservation, cruise tickets or international car insurance. For children under 16, both parents and the child must be present to apply.
A word of caution the longer you wait: last-minute appointments at regional passport agencies become increasingly difficult to obtain when demand is high.
If you currently have a passport, also make sure to check its expiration date -- you might need to renew before traveling for the holidays.
"Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months after arrival abroad," the Department of State said. "In most cases, passengers will not be allowed to board an international flight departing the U.S. if they do not have the required amount of validity remaining on their passports."
Most people can renew or apply for their passports by mail. You must apply in person if: its your first passport; you are under 16; your previous passport was issued when you were under 16; your previous passport was lost, stolen or damaged; or if your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago.
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