We're all used to making allowances for airport delays. But those are nothing compared with how long you'll wait for a passport. Normally, the outside wait time is six weeks. These days, count on ten. Blame new requirements for passports when flying to Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, and the usual seasonal uptick in applications and renewals.

RELATED STORIES
	25 Best Travel Sites
	What You Need to Know About Summer Airline Flights
	Affordable Family Vacations
	Traveling on Your Own

If you're even thinking of a trip abroad, get your passport now. If you're already in a time crunch, pay for expedited service from the State Department -- an extra $60 on top of the standard $97 application or $67 renewal fee. Then add overnight delivery charges -- both ways -- to one of the government's processing centers. If you're leaving within two weeks, call 877-487-2778 for an appointment at one of 15 regional passport offices. Be prepared to show your tickets or itinerary. Your congressional office may be able to help. Or you can hire a professional expediter -- find one at www.napvs.org. For fees ranging from about $80 to $200 (on top of the other charges), they'll rush your passport through.

MORE: Kiplinger.com | Spending Wisely | Travel & Entertainment | Magazine

TOOLS:   E-Mail Article  |  Print Article  |  Reprint Article  |  Content Sales

E-MAIL ALERTS: Keep up-to-date with the latest Kiplinger has to offer

SAVE, SHARE & DISCUSS:    |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   

ADD HEADLINES: