Monthly Column September is Passport Awareness Month

County Clerk Kearns wants to make sure travelers have valid travel documents

Erie County, NY- The Erie County Clerk's Office is marking National Passport Awareness Month with excitement. As your official Passport Application Acceptance Agent, we are here to help first-time travelers and families with children start their journeys. For seasoned travelers, now is the perfect time to double-check that your passport is up to date before your next adventure.

While most travelers know a passport is their ticket to international adventures, many are surprised to learn that some countries require your passport to be valid for six months after your return date. If your passport falls short, you could be turned away at the gate or even sent home before your trip begins.

Airlines seldom highlight this crucial detail when booking your international flights. Before you pack your bags, make sure to research the entry requirements for your destination. Confirm your passport has at least six months of validity left. If not, act quickly to renew and keep your travel plans on track.

So how much will a passport cost you in total? There are a few factors that go into the cost calculation, including the type of passport you want, whether you're renewing or getting your first one, and how fast you need to obtain your travel document. With the new fee, the cost of a first-time adult passport book comes out to $165, comprised of a $130 application fee and a $35 acceptance fee. The price for renewing an adult passport book now totals $130. The price for a minor passport book for those under age 16 is now $135, consisting of a $100 application fee and a $35 acceptance fee. According to the State Department, the turnaround time for routine service, including passport renewals, currently can take 4 to 6 weeks. For $60 more, an expedited renewal application can take 2 to 3 weeks. Processing times can change at any time, so it is important that you check the status of your passport application online at travel.state.gov/passports.

Payment for the passport or passport card must be in the form of check or money order. No cash or credit cards can be accepted. A certified copy of your birth certificate and proof of identity, such as a valid New York State driver's license or non-driver identification card, is required in order for any application to be accepted. Those looking to obtain a passport or passport card for any children under the age of 16 need to make sure both parents are present to sign the application.

The Erie County Clerk's Office welcomes you to apply for your passport card or book at Old County Hall, 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, or at the Clerk's Outreach Center, 1088 Union Road, West Seneca, right next to the Auto Bureau in Southgate Plaza. Both locations are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. To make things easier for busy travelers, the Outreach Center offers extended hours every Thursday until 7:00 p.m. Need a passport photo? We can take care of that for just $10 at either office. No appointment needed, just stop by when it's convenient for you.

Current passport holders with less than 6 months' validity remaining on their travel document(s) must submit the renewal application directly to the Passport Agency by mail. Such renewals cannot be completed through the County Clerk's Office. A complete list of instructions on how to renew a passport by mail can be found at travel.state.gov/passports. However, the passport agents in my office will be happy to assist in making sure your renewal application is completed properly, take your passport photo, and make sure it is ready for you to mail.

Additionally, U.S. travelers must meet the REAL ID compliance standard in order to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. A valid U.S. passport book, a passport card, a state-issued enhanced (EDL) driver license or enhanced non-driver identification card all meet the new security standard that went into effect May 7, 2025.

Passport applications, a list of all required documents, and detailed breakdown of the new fee schedule are available by visiting erie.gov/passports or by contacting the Erie County Clerk's Outreach Center at (716) 858-8864.