Kearns sponsors special one-stop passport acceptance fairs

County clerk to hold events at select AAA Western and Central New York travel centers

Erie County Clerk Michael P. Kearns announced his office will conduct “Passports on the Move” outreach events in March at select AAA travel and insurance centers throughout Erie County. This community event is for first-time passport applicants only.

Reservations are required and can be made by contacting the Erie County Clerk’s Outreach Center at 716-858-8864.

These passport events will be held on “Travel Tuesdays” from 5-7 p.m. at the follow offices: March 5, Orchard Park branch; March 12, Amherst branch; and March 26, Ken-Ton Branch.

“I am pleased to bring this popular service to residents of Erie County, along with our community partners at AAA of Western and Central New York,” Kearns said. “Our main objective is to make county government more customer-centered, including offering easily accessible locations for travelers to apply for their U.S. passport.”

Applicants will be able to apply for a passport card, passport book or both. Payment must be in the form of check or money order. No cash or credit cards will be accepted.

“I encourage anyone planning an upcoming spring vacation, or college students preparing for a semester abroad, to schedule an appointment for our ‘Passports on the Move’ event while current wait times to receive a first-time passport are minimal at six to eight weeks,” Kearns said.

A certified copy of birth certificate and proof of identity such as a current New York state driver’s license or non-driver identification card is required in order for any application to be accepted. Passport photos can be taken on-site and are available for $8.95 (plus tax) for AAA members or $12.95 (plus tax) for non-members.

“International travel is back!” said Elizabeth Carey, director of public relations and corporate communications at AAA Western and Central New York. “2024 is already proving to be a busy year with travelers looking to experience cultures and make memories around the globe. AAA urges travelers to get all the tools in place so they can embark on memorable trips this year, and step one is making sure you have a valid passport. ‘Passports on the Move’ simplifies the passport process, and provides a valuable, convenient service for travelers.”

Kearns’ team said, “Current passport holders with less than six months validity remaining are encouraged to follow the instructions on how to renew their passport by mail at travel.state.gov/passports. Passport applications, a list of all required documents and a schedule of fees are available by visiting erie.gov/passports or by contacting the Erie County Clerk’s Office Outreach Center at 716-858-8864.”