Kenner, La. (WGNO)- Starting in January, a Louisiana Driver’s License may no longer be all you need when you take to the skies. You may need a passport to travel anywhere…even in the United States.
Today, the United States Post Office held a Passport Fair at the Esplanade Mall.
Hundreds of folks showed up to get their passports today, after getting word that they may need a passport to travel come January 2016.
“I heard something crazy, like we can’t leave Louisiana if we don’t have a passport,” Jessica Lord said.
This is the first time Lord is getting a passport. Now’s the time since she’s going on a trip in January.
“We have a cruise booked for the new year. In the past, I’ve been able to just use my birth certificate, but now I guess I’ll need a passport to travel,” she said.
The reason for the change is Congress and the Department of Homeland Security want to standarize Government issued ID’s for travel. Louisiana, New York, New Hampshire, and Minnesota are the only states who haven’t made the change yet.
It’s the first phase of the 9-11 Commission. Governor Bobby Jindal decided not to follow suit and now time to get with the federal program is running out.
For other travelers like James T. Martin, they are here at the Passport Fair to renew their passports.
“I’m here because this is an expedited process and an easier way of going about getting my passport renewed,” he said.
Although this Passport Fair is making it easier, along with your birth certificate, and a total of $150 for fees, you’ll need to bring your patience.
“Waiting in line is like Disney World, you hope the line goes as quickly as possible,” Mark Royerre said.
Remember if you’re planning a quick trip, plan ahead because it takes about 4-6 weeks for your passport to arrive.
For more information on getting your passport, click HERE: