Documents & Regulations for Travel

With my Passport renewal due in October, and setting our sites on visiting Costa Rica with the kids in 2010, I have started to look into renewal costs, how much it will cost for the kids etc.

In a nutshell, a U.S. Adult Passport (ages 16 and Up) costs $100
If you already have a U.S. Passport and meet certain requirements, you can renew through the mail and save $25.

WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative) - regulations.
These just changed the 1st of June. Do you know what these changes are?
Generally, (and I'm quoting) "The goal of WHTI is to facilitate entry for U.S. citizens and legitimate foreign visitors, while strengthening U.S. border security. Standard documents will enable the Department of Homeland Security to quickly and reliably identify a traveler."
MORE INFO HERE.

Wondering what (if any) type of ID your Kids need these days? Here's some general info, and then see our 'link-list' below for more detailed information.

• TSA Adult ID requirements
• Generally speaking, minors Domestic U.S. travel requirements for identification are NONE, however, it is highly recommended that for safety issues children have some form of I.D. (on their body somewhere) whenever they travel
• Check with your airline for their specific requirements which may vary
• There are additional requirements for children traveling SOLO, this link is a great resource for required documentation for that type of travel
  

What's a Passport Card?
A Passport Card has the same validity as a Passport (see above), but is only valid to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry. It cannot be used for International AIR travel (even to any of the previously mentioned bordering countries). The advantage of a Passport Card is that it is wallet sized, and cheaper, $45 for an adult, $35 for those 16 and under, and only $20 to renew.

So, you've determined that you need a Passport, NOT the Passport Card, now what?
For those applying for the first time, it will cost you $100 for a 10 year Passport if you are 16 and over, and $85 for first time applicants under 16. Minor Passports must be renewed every 5 years. First time applicants MUST go and apply in person .

Other links, costs and important travel document information.

• U.S. Passport resources, lead times, costs
• International Travel Information by country
• Center of Disease Control - traveler's health
• Kids & Air Travel without an Adult

The bottom line? All these things need proper planning, Passports can take a while (READ "4-8 WEEKS!"), unless you are willing to pay many times worth their value. If you are planning an international trip in the near future, file your application. Kids need Passports for international travel, and check with your airline for domestic travel.

When you plan ahead you can make sure everyone 'travels happy'!