nucruznAZ

I thought I heard that they were not accepting expedite orders anymore since they relaxed the rules. Otherwise, I think they were just processing those and the routine ones were sitting idle. Hopefully they're processing the April ones now and since mine was sent May 1, it could be soon. I leave August 15th. At least that's one thing less to worry about for you...

Hi all

 

I applied for mine on April 26th and it came via the United States Postal Service Priority mail on Sat July 7th. I was surprised because I was thinking FedEx plus spoke to a friend and he applied beginning of April and still does not have it. I was starting to wonder if I needed to order another copy of birth cert. cruise leaves July 28. Needless to say I'm a happy cruiser!!! :D My status is still processing :confused:

Did you go for the expedited service or routine? I went routine. At the time it was 10-12 weeks for routine and the clerk at the court said I would be OK???

It all depends on where you're going. That rule applies to US regulations, not other conuntries'. Personally, I'd get the birth certificate & marriage license if there's still time to do that. That relaxed rule is pretty new and you don't want to get the official who's been on vacation and doesn't know. Also, exactly 14 days before your trip, if you don't have the passport yet, call the US Passport office (it's frustrating and you'll be on hold for some time, probably) and expedite your passport and request delivery by Fed Ex. For anyone who has a trip booked and needs to apply OR renew (it takes JUST as long), don't rely on the 10-12 week estimate: EXPEDITE!

Thanks for the info. I'll be going to Alaska via Vancouver. I tried emailing the passport office to try and get my order changed to expedite but have received no reply. I think I'll send for the birth certificate and license as you advised so they'll be no worry. Take care. :o :)

:eek: I am also a new cruiser and I am in need of advice. I applied May 1 for my passport for a cruise in August. At the time I applied, the wait was 10-12 weeks so I chose not to expedite. From what I have heard, and read, I am not so sure it will be here in time. I read that all you need is a copy of the passport application and a drivers license. Do you think this is OK?

I also read that I should have a birth certificate (which the passport agency has possession of now) and marriage license for those with name changes. I would have to apply for a new birth certificate and send to my home town for a copy of my marriage license. Do you think I should take the chance and just bring a copy of the passport application and drivers license???