Kearns to provide extended hours for passport applicants at Erie County Clerk's Outreach Center

Passports & passport cards both meet REAL ID-compliant standard, beginning May 7

Submitted by the Office of Erie County Clerk Michael P. Kearns

As the deadline for obtaining a REAL ID approaches, Erie County Clerk Michael Kearns reminds residents they can use passports and passport cards for domestic travel and to access to federal facilities starting May 7. These documents both serve as alternatives to REAL ID when the new travel regulations take effect.

To assist the traveling public in meeting the new federal compliance standard, the Erie County Clerk’s Outreach Center, located at 1088 Union Road, directly next to the auto bureau in the Southgate Plaza, will have extended hours from March 24-27. During this period, the center will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., providing an additional two hours of service.

This event is open to the public – no appointment is necessary.

“As the REAL ID deadline approaches, we encourage residents to review their identification and travel documents to ensure a smooth travel experience,” Kearns said. “If obtaining a passport or passport card is the best option for you, the clerk’s outreach center is ready to assist first-time applicants with the process. Passport cards are an excellent, affordable alternative that provide a quick way to ensure you are prepared for domestic air travel as well access to federal facilities.”

Erie County residents will be able to apply for a passport card, passport book, or both. For any application to be processed, proof of citizenship is mandatory and includes any one of the following: Certified birth certificate issued by city, county or state; or an original naturalization certificate; or a previously issued passport book or card. Additionally, proof of identity, such as a current New York state driver’s license or non-driver identification card, is also required.

Kearns said, “Currently, new passport applications can take four to six weeks to process, which coincides with the May 7 deadline. To ensure that travelers are not left behind, this is an ideal time to apply for a passport book or card to comply with the REAL ID requirements.”

Payment must be in the form of a personal check or money order. No cash will be accepted. Each passport for an adult must be accompanied by a check or money order for $130, made payable to the U.S. Department of State; and a separate check for $35, made payable to the Erie County clerk. Fees for children under 16 are $100, payable to the U.S. Department of State; and $35 payable to the Erie County clerk. Passport photos can be taken on-site and are available for $10.

Passport applications, a list of all required documents, and a complete 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.

Apply for a U.S. Passport at one of the two Erie County Clerk’s Office locations: Old County Hall, 92 Franklin St., Buffalo, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays; or the clerk’s outreach center, 1088 Union Road, West Seneca, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, with extended hours until 7 p.m. on Thursdays. Visit either location during these hours for assistance with a passport application or any other services related to the Erie County Clerk’s Office.

To learn more about the REAL ID and review the list of acceptable documents needed to meet the new compliance standards, or to schedule a DMV appointment online, visit erie.gov/clerk/REALID.