Nearly half of all Americans have a U.S. passport, per the agency. It issued more than 24 million passport books and cards last year.
"To better serve the growing number of Americans seeking U.S. passports, the Department is taking steps to establish six new passport agencies," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. "These offices — which will open in Salt Lake City, UT; Kansas City, MO; Orlando, FL; Charlotte, NC; San Antonio, TX; and Cincinnati, OH — reflect our commitment to provide prompt customer services to more Americans closer to where they live."
With those locations, there will be 35 passport agencies and centers, as well as more than 7,400 public passport acceptance facilities, in the U.S.
"As we begin planning for these new facilities, we will provide information about the timeline for when these facilities may open," a State Department spokesperson said via email.
First-time adult passport applicants must apply in person after preparing the application documents outlined online. Those renewing their passports can do so via mail or online; the online passport renewal system is currently limited to a certain number of applicants each day on a first-come, first-served basis.
Fees for passport books and cards are $130 and $30, respectively; it's $160 total for a passport book and card.
Current passport processing times are six to eight weeks for routine service and two to three weeks for expedited service. The State Department advises travelers to renew or apply for their passports at least six months before travel. Those renewing their passports should note that many countries require visitors' passports to be valid for at least six months at the time of entry.
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