Beat the Rush, Pick up Your Passport Early for Holiday Travel
With the holidays just around the corner, you may be planning an overseas getaway or a visit with family in another country.
That means you’ll need a passport.
Avoid the holiday rush and stop by the County Clerk of the Board’s office now to apply for a passport or to bring your current one up to date.
“It’s a good time to apply for a passport,” said Thomas J. Pastuszka, County Clerk of the Board of Supervisors. “It can take a few weeks to get your passport, which is why you need to apply for it as soon as possible before the busy holiday season begins.”
The County offers passport services at the County Administration Center downtown at 1600 Pacific Highway in Room 402. You can apply for a passport book or card Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. excluding County holidays. No appointment is necessary and free, three hour parking is available. Photo services are also available on site. For more information, visit www.sandiegocob.com.
Who should maintain a valid U.S. passport?
- Those with family living or traveling abroad
- Those thinking of taking a vacation abroad
- Those who travel internationally for work
Who should apply for a U.S. passport card?
- Those who cross the international borders into Mexico or Canada
- Anyone who wants to save time at a border checkpoint by using a Ready Lane
U.S. citizens returning to the country must show their passport book or card. Passport books are required for international air travel, while passport cards may only be used at U.S. and sea ports-of-entry from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda.
In the event of an emergency involving a family member abroad, a short-notice airfare bargain or an unexpected business trip, already having a valid U.S. passport or card will save time, money and stress.