Getting Passports A Lengthy Process, _ | But Getting Passport Photos A Snap (NAPSA)—Millions ofAmericans will travel abroad this year. In support of this international travel, popular publisher Lonely Planet recognizes and celebrates National Passport Month every September. But as more Americansapply for their passport to meet government regu- lations, getting passports in hand takes longer than ever. According to recent government reports, would-be travelers are now waiting as long as 12 weeksfor their passports, a process that took only six weeks one year ago. More than 1 million U.S. citizens are applying for passports each month, and the backlog of passport applications has overwhelmed government processing facilities. While the application process can be daunting, one thing that doesn’t need to be a hassle is getting passport photos taken. There are numerous FedEx Kinko’s Office and Print Centers around the United States where customers can have photos taken as well as print out the application and make copies—all in one stop. Experienced FedEx Kinko’s team members take a high-quality digital photo meeting governmentspecifications, and customers can view it on screen before printing to make sure they're happy with the result. While submitting the application and photos is easy, beware: Wait times for passports are likely to continue to grow. So plan ahead and get passport photos and applications checked off the pretravel to-do list in advance. And to keep from having to endure the hassle of reapplying in the near future, make sure to keep your passport safe while traveling (see sidebar). To find a FedEx Kinko’s location offering passport photo ser- While the passport application process can be daunting, one thing that doesn’t need to be a hassleis getting passport photostaken. vices, visit fedex.kinkos.com/loca tions. And for other tips on making the passport process go smoothly, check out Lonely Planet’s www.gotpassport.com. Passport Planning And Safety Tips Make copies of passports and other photo IDs beforetraveling. Keep a copy with you,in a separate location from your passport. Carry extra passport photo prints for visas and identification cards on the road. Give a copy of youritinerary fo family and friends so someone knows where youplantobe. Carryall important information in a plastic bag for protection. e J.S. passports are good for 10 years, but check the expiration date on your passport before hitting the road. Some countries require expiration dates no closer than six months from the date of your trip. e Utilize online resources such as LonelyPlanet.com| for travelplanning andtips. Travelers can store important information like credit card, PIN and passport numbersin online vaults accessible via the Internet or phone. @
