“Because of the amount of 10-year passports issued in 2006 and 2007, we are anticipating a flood of applications for renewals this year,” said Hanlon. “If you know your passport is set to expire, I recommend renewing it as soon as possible to avoid any travel being affected because of delays. Due to the increase in renewals, the processing of passports by the State Department could take two weeks longer than the normal four week turn around.”

Hanlon also advises people to apply for passports early, well before their planned departure date.

“As many countries require six months validity on a U.S. passport it is important to check your passport’s expiration date now,” said Hanlon.

To obtain a passport, it is necessary to have a certified birth certificate with a raised seal, social security number, a passport photo 2x2 inches in size, and current identification such as a driver's license or government identification. Passport photos are available for a fee of $10 at both locations.
 
Clerk Hanlon reminds parents that passports for children under the age of 16 expire every five years, and to apply for a passport for a child under the age of 16, both parents and the child need to appear in person or bring a notarized consent form—which is available from the County Connection—signed by the non-appearing parent.
 
Furthermore, if your next vacation or business trip takes you outside the U.S.—even to Canada, the Caribbean, Bahamas or Mexico—you need a passport. If you are unsure of costs and what documents are needed, please call them at 732-303-2828.
 
Passport applications are accepted at two Monmouth County Passport Offices:
Freehold - Monmouth County Clerk’s Office located in the Market Yard (south of Main Street). The hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Neptune - Monmouth County Connection at 3544 Route 66 (near Home Depot). The hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Information about the specific documentation can be found on the County website or by calling the Freehold Passport Office at 732-431-7324 or the Neptune County Connection Passport Office at 732-303-2828.

Hanlon recommends that residents contact the Passport Office prior to appearing at the office to be sure that you have the proper documentation and payments.

For more information, call the Monmouth County Clerk’s office at 732-431-7324 or visit the County website at www.visitmonmouth.com.