With September marking National Passport Month, AAA is reminding travelers to check passport expiration dates, review entry requirements for their destinations and renew travel documents well ahead of international trips.
The U.S. State Department issued a record 27.3 million passport books and cards during the 2025 fiscal year, up from 24.5 million in 2024.
The department currently estimates routine passport processing at four to six weeks after an application is received. That timeframe does not include mailing, which can take up to two weeks for an application to reach the department and another two weeks for the completed passport to arrive.
As such, AAA has published a list of tips and resources to guide travelers heading into the fall.
“Many travelers don’t realize that several destinations require passports to be valid for months beyond their travel dates,” AAA Club Alliance Government Affairs Manager Lori Weaver Hawkins said in a news release. “Checking your passport now can help avoid last-minute stress and ensure you’re ready when travel opportunities arise. Plus, for domestic air travel, a valid U.S. passport or passport card is also an acceptable alternative to a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license.”
Understanding the difference between passport books and passport cards
- Passport books are valid for international travel by air, land and sea.
- Passport cards are valid for land travel to Canada and Mexico and sea travel to certain Caribbean destinations and Bermuda, but cannot be used for international air travel.
- Both passport books and cards are accepted by TSA as identification for domestic flights.
Six passport tips for international travelers
- Know which identification you need. U.S. citizens need a valid passport book for international air travel. Passport cards can be used for land and sea entry into Canada and Mexico, but not for air travel.
- Plan around processing times. Routine passport processing typically takes four to six weeks after an application is received, excluding mailing time. Expedited service is available for an additional fee.
- Check how long your passport is valid. Passports issued to people 16 and older are valid for 10 years, while passports for children under 16 are valid for five years.
- Review your destination’s validity requirements. Some countries require passports to remain valid for at least six months beyond the dates of travel, meaning a passport may need to be renewed before its listed expiration date.
- Have backup identification available. New applicants generally submit a birth certificate, while those renewing may need to submit their current or expired passport. Travelers should have another form of identification available while those documents are being processed.
- Track your application. Travelers who apply in person or renew by mail can monitor their passport application status online through the U.S. State Department.
AAA international travel resources
- Travel advisors: AAA advisors can help travelers understand destination-specific passport and entry requirements.
- Passport photos: AAA stores offer passport photos, with discounts for members and no additional cost for Premier members.
- RushMyPassport: AAA members receive 10% off expedited passport and travel visa services.
- International driving permits: Travelers can apply for international driving permits at AAA stores.
- Foreign currency: AAA stores offer most foreign currencies and recommend exchanging money at least 10 days before departure.
