If you’re thinking about a cruise to Mexico or a flight to Canada next year, consider this a warning. If you don’t have a passport, get one. And do it soon to beat the year-end crush. Starting Dec. 31, a passport will be required for travel by sea or air to Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, Bermuda, and Central and South America. First-time applications must be done in person; renewals can be done by mail. Here’s how to apply.
– Download application form DS-11 from the State Department’s Web site: travel.state.gov/passport. Click on “How to get a passport.” Forms also are available at post offices.
– Provide proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate), proof of identity (such as driver’s license) and two color passport photos.
– Pay the fees ($97 for anyone 16 and older) and take the forms to any passport acceptance facility, such as a post office. To find a nearby office, click on www.iafdb.travel.state.gov.