Passport Headaches Can Be Avoided By Planning Ahead, Says Gordon

March 20, 2007, WASHINGTON – Middle Tennesseans with international travel plans should apply for passports sooner rather than later, according to U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon.

“Passport agencies have been inundated with applications, and the resulting delays are forcing some travelers to miss out on planned trips,” said Gordon. “I recommend anyone planning to travel internationally this summer to get their passports now rather than waiting until the last minute.”

Because of unusually large numbers of passport applications nationwide, the New Orleans Passport Agency has announced that travelers should expect waits of up to 10 weeks for passports to be processed. Expedited passports will require three to four weeks. Turnaround times are usually six weeks for regular passports and two weeks for expedited applications.

The New Orleans office processes all passport applications from Tennessee residents.

“Allowing plenty of time to receive your passport will save you from some anxiety, and it will save you money,” said Gordon.

The U.S. Department of State offers expedited passport service for an additional $60 over the usual passport fees. Regular first-time passport fees total $97 for adults and $82 for children under age 16. Passport renewals are $67 each.

For more information on where to get a passport and application requirements, contact Gordon’s office at (615) 896-1986.