The FAQ section below contains some of the most commonly asked questions. If you have further questions, please call 970-498-7860 and press option 1 to speak with a Recording Technician, or send an email to recording@larimer.gov

FAQs

  1. What's the difference between a passport book and a passport card?

    Passport Books

    A United States passport book is an identity and citizenship document allowing United States citizens to travel internationally and return stateside. It may be used by U.S. citizens to travel by any means to any international travel destination.

    Passport Cards

    The passport card may only be used by U.S. citizens to re-enter the United States at land border-crossings and sea ports-of-call when arriving from Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. It cannot be used for air travel to any of these destinations or for other international destinations.

     Passport BookPassport Card
     U.S. PASSPORT BOOKU.S. PASSPORT CARD
    International travel byAir, sea, or land.Land and sea entry from Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, and Bermuda. 
    NOT valid for international travel by air.
    Validity10 years for adults
    5 years for children under age 16
    Same as passport book
    Size5" x 3½"Same as a credit card
    Cost for First-Time Applicants$165 for adults
    $135 for children under age 16
    $65 for adults
    $50 for children under age 16
    Cost for Renewal$130 for adults$30 for adults
    Ready Lanes Can be used to cross land borders from Mexico and Canada faster

    APPLY FOR BOTH AND SAVE $35. Cost for first-time adults is $195 and cost for first-time children is $150.

    REAL ID: Passport books and cards are approved IDs for domestic flights.

  2. How long does it take to get a passport?

    Processing times vary. Please check the most recent processing times on the US Department of State website

  3. I need a passport for scheduled international travel in the next 14 calendar days, what do I do?

    If you need a passport for urgent travel, you will need to visit a passport agency and center. An agency and center is different than acceptance facilities which may include post offices, libraries, and local government offices. Please visit the US Department of State website to learn the location of the closest agency and how to make an appointment. 

  4. Do I need 6 months of validity on my passport to travel?

    If you are age 16 or older, your passport is valid for 10 years. Your child's passport (age 0-15) is valid for 5 years.

    Some countries require that your passport have at least six months of validity beyond the dates of your trip. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met.

  5. I recently applied for a passport, how can I check the status of my application?

    Application status updates will be sent to the email address you provided on your application. You can also check the status of the application online and learn more about each status update.

  6. Can I get my passport photo taken at the time of my appointment?

    Yes, we can take your passport photo for a fee of $15. This helps to ensure that your photo meets the requirements set by the US Department of State. You may also have a photo taken at at a company that offers photo services. Photo requirements including examples and tips can be found on the US Department of State website.  

Contact Recording

ADDRESS: 200 W. Oak Street, First Floor, Fort Collins, CO 80521
HOURS: Monday-Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm
PHONE: (970) 498-7860
EMAIL: recording@larimer.gov
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