The U.S. Postal Service is hosting passport fairs around New Mexico as residents brace for identification requirements to take effect early next year.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recently denied New Mexico an extension from tougher federal requirements on state driver’s licenses under the REAL ID Act.
The decision means New Mexico driver’s licenses and IDs won’t be valid for federal purposes such as entering military bases and nuclear research labs starting Jan. 10. As a result, residents are seeking passports as an alternative.
In Southeast New Mexico, passport fairs are slated to run from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Carlsbad Post Office, 3200 San Jose Blvd., and Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Lovington Post Office, 203 E. Avenue D.
The cost of a passport book is $135 for ages 16 and up, with separate payments of $110 to be paid to the state department for the passport application fee and $25 to the postal service for processing. Passports for children under 16 are $105 with separate payments of $80 and $25.
A recent 2”-by-2” passport photo is also required. If applicants need a photo taken, an extra $15 will be added.
Identification is required to prove U.S. citizenship. Accepted forms include previously issued, undamaged passports, certified birth certificates issued by a city, county or state (hospital-issued certificates are not accepted), consular reports of birth abroad or birth certificates, naturalization certificates, or certificates of citizenship.
In addition, one current ID – a valid driver’s license, government ID, military ID, naturalization certificate, etc. – is required.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to print and complete their passport applications in advance by visiting usps.com/passport. Do not sign the form, as a passport acceptance clerk must witness the signature. Forms are also available at any passport office.
