16/02/2023
MOST COMMON PASSPORT MISTAKES
How to avoid costly delays or cancellation
1. Traveling outside of the U.S. & its territories requires a passport. As of May 2025, travelers (you) without a Real ID (New Driver License) who are traveling anywhere in U.S. via airlines in the U.S. will also need a passport. Check before you go if you do need one, especially for cruising.
2. In some places, a valid passport means there are at least 6 months left before it expires. Other countries require three (3) blank pages to enter. It's best to check entry requirement for your visiting place so that you're not surprised later.
3. Passport B**b is a government document used for id, as well as entry in & out of a country. It is a big deal. A significant (greatly) tear in the booklet, missing page, or damage-especially to the page that contains your personal information & your picture - are cause for concern.
4. Your passport must match your other id & show your official name, as well as your name's official spelling. things such as an incorrect initial, names that are reversed, or a misspelling (wrong spelling) can create (make) unnecessary hassle at your travel points & may prevent you from traveling until the inaccuracy (mistake name) is fixed. It's always easier to address this type of issue beforehand, not when you're trying to board a plane.
5. It takes time-sometimes a lot of time-to get a new passport. As a result of complications experience during the pandemic (covid 2020-2021), many folks had a longer than normal wait time. It still makes sense to apply early & prepare for a longer wait than you'll need.
6. Yes, the passport expire. No, you don't want to discover (find) this when you're trying to board your cruise line. Also, remember that a child who was under the age of 16 when their passport was issued needs a new one in just 5 years. Adult passports are good for 10 years.
7. The passport application requirements for a U.S.passport are very specific. Be sure to adhere (believe in) to them.
For example, if you send in a photo that's not compliant with these rules, your entire application may be rejected (not approved - turn down). Use the correct form, have the necessary accompanying documents, know who needs to be present for an in-person application, and how to pay. In many cases, it makes sense to visit your Clerk of Courts office or Post Office, Passport office, or even AAA office for assistance (help) with photos & forms. You may ask me and I can send you the link and explain to you what you need to do.
8. Remember your passport is official government document, you should not have any souvenir stamps on it. If you want any souvenir stamps, give them blank paper or another booklet, not passport book.
So a stamp on your passport from your vacation place is a big no-no. Authorized officials of the U.S. or of international countries are the only ones who can stamp a passport. Never authorize any unofficial stamp on your official government document. Otherwise, your passport may be declared invalid (no good) and you may be denied entry into a country or back into the U.S.
These guidelines can help avoid stressful hassles as well as an expensive delay or cancellation. if you have additional questions or issues, best to check with Passport office at 1-877-487-2778. they will give you better answers.
Have a Happy & Safe Travel.
