An increase in the number of passports is expected in 2016 and 2017, according to the U.S. Department of State. Due to the likely increase, travelers are advised to apply early for passports. The increase in applications is in part due to the fact that in 2006 a requirement was put in place where a passport was needed for travel to Canada and Mexico. Since a passport is 10-year document, many renewals will be due this year and next. The State Department is also anticipating an increase in the number of first-time applicants with projected overall issuance between 16 and 18 million in fiscal year 2016 and up to 20 to 22 million in fiscal year 2017.

Last year, 310 applications for passports were issued in Washington County. Recorder Jo Greiner explains that didn’t include renewals. She adds the processing time for a passport currently is six weeks, but it can be expedited for an additional fee to receive it in two to three weeks. To apply for a passport proof of U.S. citizenship is needed, a photo identification like a driver’s license, photograph and payment.