Rep. Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

 Spring break is just around the corner, and Arkansans are gearing up for travel. During the pandemic, many people put their travel plans on hold, and now that travel restrictions are lifted, more and more people are traveling abroad. If you plan to travel internationally, I encourage you to check your passports before it’s too late.

 If you are traveling soon (or hope to), don’t let passport processing times affect your travel plans. Routine processing can take 6-8 weeks, and expedited processing, which costs an additional $60, can take 2-3 weeks. If you have spring break plans abroad and need a passport, you may have to pay for expedited processing to get it in time.

 Remember that mailing times are not included in processing times, so consider the total time it will take to receive your passport when booking travel. It may take two weeks for your application to arrive at a passport agency or center and another two weeks to receive it after it’s mailed. In some cases, you may be able to add a one-to-two-day delivery service for your passport book for an additional $19.53.

 This serves as a timely reminder to remain aware of passport processing times and to check your passport to ensure it is up to date! If you need assistance or have questions about your passport application process, my office may be able to help you. Please keep in mind that we cannot make any guarantees, but my team will do their best to assist you. You may call our office or visit Westerman.house.gov/contact to request assistance.